Losing a Friend After Coming Out or a Confession: How to Cope?
Has your best friend been distancing themselves since you came out or confessed your feelings? It's a super tough situation, but know that you're not alone! We'll explain why your friend's reaction doesn't define you and how to get through this.
Your friend wants to end your friendship because you came out
It's really hard to go through this, especially when it comes from a close friend. The fact that you had the courage to come out is proof of strength and honesty, to yourself and to others. If your friend reacts badly or wants to end your friendship because of it, it's painful, but it says more about their own fears or prejudices than it does about you.
You deserve people around you who accept you for who you are, unconditionally. It's normal to feel sad, disappointed, or angry—all these emotions are valid. And know that you are not alone: there are people, groups, and trusted adults who can listen and support you. You did nothing wrong. You have the right to be you.
Your friend wants to end your friendship since you confessed your feelings
Confessing your feelings to someone takes a lot of courage, especially when that person is a close friend. You've been honest, sincere, and vulnerable—and that's something you can be proud of, no matter how that person reacts.
It's very painful to lose a friendship because of this, when you had no intention of making the other person uncomfortable, just sharing how you felt. Unfortunately, not everyone knows how to react, and some people may feel overwhelmed or confused, especially if they've never been in this kind of situation before. It's also possible that this person isn't comfortable with anything other than friendship with you and feels like your feelings could jeopardize your relationship.
But it's not up to you to carry the weight of their discomfort. Your feelings are valid. You did nothing wrong. And losing someone who can't see or accept you with kindness, even after a sincere confession doesn't mean you don't deserve friends who love and respect you for who you are.
You have the right to hurt, to cry, to feel lost. But you are not alone, and you are not "too much" or "not normal" because you loved someone.
If any of these situations happen to you and you don't know who to talk to, we're here for you!
