Hiding My True Self from My Family—For Safety?

Sometimes, I wonder if anyone else has to fake their whole life just to feel safe at home. I created a whole new identity online, just so my controlling parents wouldn't find out I'm queer. It's wild—my online friends know me as "Alex," a totally different person with a made-up family and even a fake pet dog. 🐶 Every day, I have to remember which stories I've told and which details I've changed. It's exhausting, but the fear of being found out is even worse. I wish I could just be myself without worrying about my family's reaction. Have you ever had to hide a part of yourself from your family? How did you deal with it? Let's talk about it—maybe we can help each other feel a little less alone. 💬 #FamilyStruggles #OnlineSafety #Identity #Confessions #FamilyRelationships