Find a time and place where you can talk privately with your parents. You can bring a friend or other adult along to support you. Start by saying you have something really important – and difficult – to tell them. You can also say that it’s taken a lot of courage for you to be honest with them. Then, just tell them.

Be prepared for your parents to freak. This is going to be shock and maybe a disappointment to them. They’ll probably get angry and upset. So brace yourself. Give them some time to get over their initial reaction. After a while, most parents want to support and help their child. Often, they’ll do whatever it takes to make sure you are healthy and safe.