Often, I am taken less seriously when it comes to LGBT issues - after all, as a member of the group in question I must be 'over-emotional' and 'lack perspective'. You know how the story goes.

See, that seems so odd that people would say or even think this. I truly don't get that. It's completely condescending and I'm sorry you've encountered this attitude.

Every time someone comes out, it helps someone else in some way, and I think it's a true gift to others to share who you are as a person. :)