The holiday season often conjures images of warmth, connection and celebration, especially for young people returning to the family home. This can be complicated if you are LGBTQ+, transgender or gender non-conforming.
The holiday season often conjures images of warmth, connection and celebration, especially for young people returning to the family home. This can be complicated if you are LGBTQ+, transgender or gender non-conforming.
Family members may hold certain religious, cultural or political beliefs that do not accept your identity. But even well-meaning family may struggle to adjust to calling you by a name or pronouns that differ from how they have known you previously.
Navigating family gatherings requires a delicate balance between vulnerability and self-preservation. By deciding how to present yourself, establishing boundaries, leaning on a support network and creating space for joy, you can approach the season in ways that honor your authentic self.
Expressing your gender identity during the holidays is a deeply personal decision. For some, sharing your new name or pronouns with family may feel liberating and empowering. Research underscores the importance of being addressed correctly. Several studies link the use of someone’s affirmed (or chosen) name to significantly lower rates of depression and suicidal thoughts.
However, introducing your name and pronouns may also carry risks, particularly in unsupportive environments. Family rejection has been shown to be a major predictor of adverse mental health, including anxiety and low self-esteem.
A proactive approach—informing trusted family members ahead of time—can pave the way for smoother interactions. Giving relatives time to practice your name and pronouns demonstrates thoughtfulness and creates space for understanding.
