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How To Come Out To Your Friends
If you recently realised that you're gay you'll probably want to tell some of your friends. It can be tricky to figure out how and when to do this, so we've put together this film about coming out to your friends.
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Step 1:
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Telling gay people
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Often it's a good idea to have made one or two gay friends before telling your straight friends, that way they can help support you if in the worse case scenario your straight mates need some time adjusting to it. Gay people who have been through the coming out process already will be able to give you help and advice
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Step 2:
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Telling others
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It's usually a good idea to come out to your most trusted and most caring friend first. They will be the most likely to accept the news.
Try to tell them in an environment where you feel safe and comfortable, either at home, or in a cafe or restaurant as long as you can talk in privacy.
Try to envision a really positive coming out experience in your mind. Tell your friend that you have good news rather than bad news - you are celebrating the fact that this part of your life is no longer a secret.
Ask if they have any questions they want to ask you.
Explain you want to stay in charge of the information for the time being. Agree with them who they can discuss it with, and who they are not to tell
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Step 3:
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Their reaction
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Remember that people's reaction to your news could be unpredictable. Sometimes even seemingly liberal people can take it badly. If your friend becomes angry or upset, try to remain calm and not create a 'scene.' It may be that your friend just needs time to adjust and will accept it in time.
If you have accepted your own homosexuality, then your friend is more likely to as well. Let them know that you see coming out as positive step because you can now live openly and honestly.
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