Q&A: Is it okay to have an identity your family doesn’t know about – if it is a safe identity?

These Anonymous Questions were submitted by teens like you, and answered by KBFPC’s teen Peer Educators and trained adult staff.

Q: Is it okay to have an identity your family doesn’t know about – if it is a safe identity?

A: This is a very good question! The short answer is, yes, it is okay to have an identity that your family does not know about. If you do not yet feel comfortable telling your family, or if it is unsafe to do so, then it is totally okay that your family doesn’t know. If you are unsure whether or not your family will understand or support you, you can talk to another trusted adult in your life, and there are many anonymous resources online that you can find as well.

Getting support from a safe adult in your community can be important, whether or not you feel comfortable sharing your identity with your family at this time. It can be super helpful to talk to an adult you trust, like a supportive teacher, coach, doctor, family friend, or other leaders you feel safe with.

Check out some of these resources to learn more and find support:

• https://www.identityalaska.org/gathering-spaces
• https://www.scarleteen.com/read/identity
• https://www.thetrevorproject.org/visit-trevorspace/

Ask our Peer Educators: