Way too many parent child relationships suffer because of the fact that coming out to parents causes a lot of stress. This can be a very emotional decision and as a gay person you should prepare yourself for this.

There is no sense in telling your parents you are gay if this only a feeling you are unsure of yourself. In such a case avoid unnecessary stress by rather asking them for help in getting your head around these feelings. They will understand as every person has these feelings at some stage.

In the case where you may be settled into the gay life and want the world to know; coming out may be necessary to allow you the freedom of an open gay life. Again, make sure you know what you feel before talking to your parents. Choosing the right time will make it a bit easier as well.

Support as in a lover or friend may not be a good idea, as this will cause your parents to react in a polite and untruthful manner. In many cases some parents immediately took aim at the lover and made him the party to blame for your decisions.

Do not fool yourself, your parents will react, but you know them well enough to know how they will react. Many of them will hug you and tell you they are glad you finally settled with them as they suspected all along.

Answer all their questions as truthful as you can. They will probably fear for your health as a gay lifestyle and HIV still gets connected. Assure your parents that you are a responsible adult that knows all there is to know about safe sex.

Remember that no church or religion may banish you because of who you are and should this be part of your coming out, treat the subject with care but do not get thrashed about this, God loves every person he made.

Agree to their terms and conditions as far as the rules they set where their house is concerned. Very few parents will throw open the doors to lovers, but given time, they will get to know your lover and before you know it he or she will get that personal invite to visit.

Have lots of compassion and patience for all your family members as they process this information. In a short while they will open up and warm up to you again. Blood is thicker than water.