Supporting Your Child

Whether your child or loved one is gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender or unsure, you have taken the first step to supporting them by reading this. You have opened yourself up to new information, and hopefully you will be better informed.  You can support your child or loved one by educating yourself as much as possible about sexuality or gender idenity.

Young people know that gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people are marginalised by society.  Many children learn negative words for GLBT people, often before the reach the kindergarten playground.  They assume that all the people they know are heterosexual; and they may have no idea that some of the respected adults around them are gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender.

As a result, many GLBT young people feel profoundly isolated. 'Surely I am the only person like this' is a common sentiment.  Unfortunately, some GLBT young people are viciously harassed and abused.

Whether or not they are labelled by others, these young people often;

• Fear being discovered and expect rejection
• Guard their feelings carefully in order to be accepted (or merely to survive)
• Have few opportunities to openly date, flirt or engage in sexual experimentation like other young people
• Lack accurate information about their feelings and experiences

The vast majority of GLBT young people are not depressed or suicidal.  However, Australian research has identified that same sex attracted young people may be up to six times more likely to attempt suicide than the general population.  These figures are believed to be even higher for young people with gender identity issues.

A young persons sexual or gender identity does not in and of itself cause them to feel depressed or suicidal.  What does impact negatively on their well-being is the experience of growing up 'different' in a society that often rejects difference, and that expects everyone to be heterosexual.  Education about gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people is an important step towards supporting young people and preventing depression and suicide.  Young GLBT people need the following kinds of support, to develop good self-esteem and skills to deal with what can sometimes be a hostile environment:

• Supportive opportunities to socialise with one another
• Resources that specifically address their concerns
• Sensitive, non-judgemental support as they come to understand themselves

There are services and programs throughout Victoria that provide support for same sex attracted and transgender people.  Contact the Gay and Lesbian Switchboard for details of services near you.

(Information taken from 'Making Sense' Information booklet produced by PFLAG Victoria)