Attitude Check

New for this month is an advice column. Send us a question via email (fsuthevoice. articles@gmail.com), or go to fsuthevoice.com to send it anonymously, it’ll be on the home page last topic on the right “Advice Column Form”.

DEAR EBONY: I recently met a girl at a party and, after hanging out a few times, we had unprotected sex. I wasn’t a virgin, but this was the first time I’ve had unprotected sex. She’s on the pill, so I’m not too worried about her being pregnant, but I’m scared I have an STD. I’m not showing any signs of an STD, but I don’t know how soon signs will show. Am I being paranoid? Signed, Just Checkin’

DEAR JUST CHECKIN’: You are not being paranoid, showing concern for your health is smart. Although you are not currently showing any signs of an STD, it is always a good idea to get tested after having unprotected intercourse. Most experts recommend getting tested for STD’s such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, HIV, and hepatitis B and C within a few weeks of having unprotected sex. I strongly recommend calling 910-672-1259 and making an appointment to get tested at FSU’s Student Health Services (SHS). After attending your appointment, make sure to follow up on your test results. If any results come back positive, make sure you inform the girl you had unprotected sex with and any other partners so they can get tested as well.

DEAR EBONY: A few weekends ago I went home and came out to my mom and step-dad, and now, I think they hate me. Before I left to return to school they barely said anything. Now, every time I call to speak to them, they don’t answer the phone or call me back. I think my parents still love me, but I just want to speak to them and be able to have them accept me. I feel terrible, casted out, and regret telling them. Signed, Lonely Lesbian

DEAR LONELY LESBIAN: You were very brave and strong coming out to your parents. Having your support system not speak to you is very challenging, but you need to have faith that you will eventually have a good relationship with them again; they probably just need time to process.

Instead of keeping your messages focused on you coming out, try keeping the conversation on a “lighter” topic, such as the weather, school, or a relative. Since they aren’t answering your calls, try a friendly “How are things?” or “Just thought I’d say hi” text. Small, unrelated conversations like these give your parents the hope that they can have a simple chat with you and things can feel normal again. It doesn’t mean you ignore it or allow them to pretend, it just means you’re willing to give it time while they adjust.

Finally, know you are not alone and there are people on campus happy to support you! The Safezone Office, located in Hood Hall room 34, is an ally office for the LGBT community. The Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA) is an organization on campus that actively supports the LGBT community. Also, any faculty or staff member at FSU with a pink Safe Zone sticker on their office door is happy to talk with you. For more information visit: http://www.uncfsu.edu/ studentaffairs/safe-zone.