Pat's Answer

Hi there A.

You are very welcome to Ask Pat. You say you are a lesbian and you really like your best friend. Have you thought about what it would be like for you to tell this to your best friend? Do you feel that this is something you and your best friend could chat about? Do you know how your best friend feels about you? Maybe these are questions that you have asked yourself but you would have the right to discuss with your best friend.

You also tell us that you want to come out to your family but that you are afraid that they won’t like you anymore. It sounds like you have made a very brave decision but are a little unsure and that is perfectly understandable. What is it that makes you feel your family won’t accept you?

It might be helpful for you to talk about this further. Childline are here to listen to, support and help you to explore the options that are available to you. Our phone lines are open 24 hours a day, we are a free, non-judgmental service and we would be more than happy to chat to you. Our phone number is 1800 66 66 66. Our text number is 50101. Our web chat address can be found on this website www.childline.ie.

Alternatively, the organisation called BelongTo are there to offer support and advice and they can be contacted at 1890 92 95 39 or at www.belongto.org. You may also find some useful information on our website, in the Sexuality and Relationship section.

We wish you well.

 Pat