Tips for Parents of LGBTQIA Youth
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LGBTQIA youth face unique mental health challenges as they struggle to reconcile their faith, sexual identity, or gender identity. If you are a parent of an LGBTQIA youth moving towards accepting your child's identity, I would like to share a few thoughts. In this blog post, I will discuss the importance of familial support to LGBTQIA youth. Then, I will share simple, practical actions to support your child through this moment.
LGBTQIA Youth Without Family Acceptance
LGBTQIA youth who question their identity hide who they truly are for fear of being rejected by their families. LGBTQIA youth worry about hurting their parents and family members who believe that being gay is immoral and sinful. But when LGBTQIA youth hide their identities, they pay a high cost. It undermines their self-esteem and self-worth.
New research shows that families and caregivers significantly influence their LGBTQIA youth's risk and well-being. The Utah Suicide Prevention Coalition reports that LGBTQIA teens who experience family rejection are eight times more likely to die by suicide than LGBTQIA teens accepted by family. Data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) shows that LGBTQIA teens who are rejected by their families are six times more likely to have high levels of depression, three times more likely to use illegal drugs, and three times more likely to be at increased risk for HIV infection and other sexually transmitted diseases.
LGBTQIA Youth With Family Acceptance
Conversely, studies show that LGBTQIA youth who are accepted by their families experience overall physical and emotional health. It also helps them to develop higher self-esteem and value their inherent sense of worthiness. Furthermore, LGBTQIA youth accepted by their families are less likely to be depressed, use illegal drugs, or attempt suicide.
Family acceptance also helps LGBTQIA youth create healthy beliefs about their life outcome. They believe that they will be happy, productive, and have a good life with family support. If you are motivated to support your child through this acceptance journey but unsure what to do, you are not alone.
5 Tips for Parents of LGBTQIA Youth
Finally, parents, you may be struggling with your emotions, and that's okay and normal. However, it is critical to emphasize that parents' or caregivers' actions and words have a powerful impact on their children's well-being. If you'd like to foster a more supportive environment for an LGBTQIA child or teen, here are a few things you can do.
Show love and affection. LGBTQIA youth worry about being loved by their parents or caregivers. The question that they may be asking themselves is, “Am I loved? Am I lovable?” Don't hesitate to tell your child, "I love you." Also, show your child displays of physical affection. These actions will promote a secure attachment between you and your child.
Reach out and listen. Your child may interpret long periods of silence as a sign of anger. It will feel uncomfortable to talk about your teens' sexual orientation or sexual identity but reach out to talk to them about their experiences. Listen to what they have to say and respond with empathy.
Provide a positive narrative about the future. Parents, when accepting your LGBTQIA youth allow them to envision a happy future as an LGBTQIA adult. A positive narrative about the future is essential to counteract isolation, hopelessness, risky behaviors, and suicide ideation.
Stand up for your child. Remember, as a parent, your words are powerful. Through your journey and your child's journey, you may hear some negative comments from families and friends. When you hear these negative comments, it is an opportunity to practice courage and let others know that you will not accept insults, teasing, or discrimination against your child. Insist that family members and friends treat your child with respect or rethink the very definition of family and friends.
When you know better, do better. As human beings, we are always evolving and growing. As parents, we also make mistakes. Do not try to be perfect but try to be human. American poet Dr. Maya Angelou said, “Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” Parents, your LGBTQIA child needs your love. They are afraid and worried that you might never love them. They need a secure attachment bond to become physically and emotionally healthy adults.
Resources for Families of LGBTQIA Youth
Regardless of how your loved one came out to you—on the most recent national coming out day or over dinner on a random weeknight—they have trusted you with this part of their life. Remember, it’s okay and even normal for you to be dealing with many different emotions right now.
If you and/or your LGBTQIA youth are struggling with your emotions, it might be time to schedule an appointment with a therapist. We’re ready to provide you and your loved with with professional and compassionate care. Contact us by calling 801.944.4555 or filling out this form to schedule your initial therapy appointment today.
References:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2017, June 21). LGBT Youth. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/lgbthealth/youth.htm.
Sanders, R., & Fields, E. L. Tips for Parents of LGBTQ Youth. Johns Hopkins Medicine. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/tips-for-parents-of-lgbtq-youth.
Utah Suicide Prevention Coalition. (2017). Utah Suicide Prevention Plan 2017-2021. https://www.health.utah.gov/vipp/pdf/Suicide/SuicidePreventionCoalitionPlan2017-2021.pdf.
Additional Resources:
Utah Pride Center
Equality Utah