What is Coming Out?

Coming out is understood by many to mean the act of disclosing one’s non-straight sexuality or non-cisgender gender identity to others [non-cisgender: includes people who do not have the same sex and gender but do not identify as transgender]. Coming out is often framed in media and culture as a necessary step to acceptance and well-being. But, for some, coming out may be worse than holding that information in. It is important not to pressure anyone to come out, as the timing of that decision rests solely with the person coming out and what feels right to them.

Likewise, who a person comes out to is a decision to be made only by the person coming out. There are countless factors considered when deciding who to come out to, so it is important to not take it personally if someone does not come out to you. Remember that it is not about you — it’s about them — so respect their decision and know that they will share that information with you if and when the time is right.