I'm wearing purple today, to honor those teens who have committed suicide because they were gay and bullied.
Over the past several months, the nation has become more and more aware of teen suicide, and specifically those who have killed themselves because they were gay and had been bullied by classmates. Six teens have killed themselves due to bullying, name calling, and being generally picked on because they were gay or perceived as being gay. If you are gay or lesbian teen out there, suffering through torment by your peers, I encourage you to talk to a counselor, a teacher, your parents if you can. You are not alone. We have all been the subject of some sort of bullying tactic or ridicule but the best advice I can give is to seek out those friends or adults who can help you.
As a kid and teen I was bullied because of my height (I'm still short), because I was perceived as being gay (I didn't come out to myself until I was 14) but others figured I was. I got shit because I didn't like sports, I wanted to read and I wanted to generally avoid everyone because I was scared to death. I made it through, and you will too. Reach out. I know it's scary and you think that no one understands you, but we've all been there and we will understand. Hang in there.
Life does get better.
Resources:
http://www.thetrevorproject.org/
Lifeline, 24/7: 866-4-U-TREVOR (866-488-7386)
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
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