Everyday, LGBTQ+ kids are being rejected by parents. They get disrespected, abused, and even kicked out of their homes because of their gender or sexual orientation. A study discovered that In LGBTQ+ youth, family rejection increases the odds of substance misuse and suicide attempts, this is compared to a study which found that LGBTQ+ youth whose family supports their gender identity and sexual orientation are almost 50% less likely to make a suicide attempt.

Why is this a problem? Without a parents support, LGBTQ+ kids often feel lost or depressed, parental rejection of LGBTQ+ kids is found to make the prone to mental problems later on. A study found that LGBTQ+ kids are eight times more likely to report having attempted suicide with parental rejection. It’s found that family acceptance helps protect LGBTQ+ kids from depression, suicidal behavior, and substance abuse. Also, having an accepting family helps kids have a higher self-esteem, social support, and overall health.

Possible solutions: If your kid comes out as LGBTQ+ you should listen without interrupting, thank them for sharing something so personal, and assure them that you love them. If you don’t understand certain things about LGBTQ+ or have questions, doing research or asking your kid would be best instead of judging them. Take some time to think and figure things out instead of silencing them. Or instead you can go to pride parades and donate to charities, even supporting LGBTQ+ creators on social media.

All kids want is to be accepted by parents, this includes LGBTQ+ youth, after all, they went through a long journey of self-discovery and decided to open up to you.