So often we hear about gay teens whose parents are not supportive, or are even hostile towards them because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. So it is nice when gay teens are are met with positive reactions from their parents. Here one boy relates how her was pleasantly surprised when his parents offered to help him address any issues related to his sexual orientation that come up.

He writes:

"So, a few minutes ago something sort of weird happened. I'll start from the very beginning. So I had my little journal that I had been writing in ever since I knew I was gay (about one year), and I put in it all my secrets (mostly just being gay). So recently I wrote about my crush, Justin, in the book. Usually, I hide away the book when I'm done writing for the day. But this time I forgot to hide it. So when my parents found my notebook lying about the house, of course, they read through it (I was asleep at the time). In the morning I found it upside-down in its place, and I totally freaked out (in my mind). I thought for half the day that I was mistaken, and that I had left it in that position and my parents never read it. But then, later, they both came into my room and we had a conversation in a sort of "code". My parents weren't sure if I was comfortable enough to talk about it by saying stuff like "gay" and "your crush Justin", but of course I am comfortable to talk about those kinds of things. They told me they didn't really know how to go about helping me lead my life, but whatever they can do to help they can, and they are behind me "whatever the very highest percentage is," (said my mom). Well, now I am very happy because I can check off coming out to my parents from my list. Now all that's left is the REST of the world..."

This is great news! Having supportive parents really can make a huge difference in the lives of gay teens.

Researchers have actually found that GLBT children whose parents respond positively to their sexual orientation or gender identity are healthier and happier. A study done by researchers at San Francisco State University and published in the journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics, confirmed that gay teens whose parents accept their sexual orientation are not only happier and healthier, but they are also less likely to do drugs, be depressed or attempt suicide than those with parents who react badly to their news.

Here are some tips for your parents if they wants advice on how to support you:

• Understand that you you cannot change who your child is. There is no way to make him or her straight.
• Educate yourself on what it means to be gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender.
• Join a support group like Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays
• Offer your child unconditional love
• Remember your child is still the same multi-dimensional person he or she was before coming out.
• Understand that this isn't about "sex." A lot of people confuse sexual orientation with a child being sexually active. Being GLBT is about much more than sexual behavior.
• A lot of parents are shocked, scared or confused when a child comes out. It's okay to tell your child that you don't have all the answers. However, it is also important to remind your child that you are willing to learn and that his or her news, does not change the fact tht you love and support him or her.