Revealing the deepest parts of ourselves to others can feel like a great risk. Certainly this can be the case in coming out as gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender. Over the years I've worked with many people who've struggled to share this part of themselves with family members, friends or co-workers. And while coming out to others doesn't always go smoothly or as hoped, I have never worked with anyone who's regretted it. Websites, libraries and bookstores are brimming with information about coming out, and the LGBT Center offers a wide range of social and support opportunities for people --- whether they have been out for years or are just coming out.
THE BODY KEEPS THE SCORE
Bessel van der Kolk is a hero and leader in helping to bring the study of trauma into public awareness. In his fascinating book, The Body Keeps the Score, he tells of his own journey in learning, through his patients, about trauma and it's consequences. He writes about the impact trauma has on the body and psyche, and offers hope in outlining effective treatments. Whether you're a therapist who works with traumatized patients, someone who's experienced trauma, or know someone who's survived trauma (I think that includes all of us), I highly recommend this book.