I learned that a young friend of a friend recently committed suicide after being kicked out the house for being a lesbian by her mom. Though I didn't know the girl, this shook me. In my life, I've had two friends attempt suicide, though fortunately neither succeeded.
It should go without saying that such the mother's action is reprehensible. I can't see how any parent with a microgram of decency would do something like that. People who aren't willing to accept their children for who they are really shouldn't have children in the first place.
Sadly, too many gay teens crumble under the weight of homophobia by parents, relatives, "friends," other students and society in general. It's one of the few forms of hateful bigotry that is still socially acceptable to some extent. Because of this, gay teens are four times more likely to attempt suicide than heterosexual teens.
If you are a teen (or know one) who has thought of ending your life, please get help. Click here or here to find out how.
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