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Coming Out
Coming out is what we call it when we tell people that we are lesbian, gay or bisexual. People who are Transgender also sometimes use the term coming out when they tell others about their gender identity.
Coming Out is the term used by lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people to describe their experience of discovery, self-acceptance, openness and honesty about their LGBT identity and their decision to disclose, i.e. to share this with others when and how they choose.
Coming out refers to the expression "coming out of the closet" meaning to tell others that you are lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender. Being closeted is the opposite of being out.
People come out at all ages and in different ways. We can be out to a few people in our lives, everybody in our lives or somewhere in-between. Throughout our lives who we are out to may change depending on our circumstances.
The families of lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgendered people often feel that they too must come out and this can cause stress and worry. If you are a family member of a lesbian, gay bisexual or transgender person and you feel you need support, please see our section on families.
There is a lot of support for people coming out across Ireland. You can see what is available in your area by looking at the links on the right hand side or by clicking on the map. You will find a list of support organisations here
If you'd like to speak to someone about coming out please call us in total confidence. You can find details of our helplines by clicking the logos at the bottom of the page or here.
While coming out can be a challenging time most people get a positive and supportive response from family and friends and feel happy that they made the decision to come out.
You can read more on-line about coming out by clicking on the links on the right hand side of this page or you can download one of the useful documents listed.