Ever since I came out to my mum, she has made my life such a misery

DEAR DEIDRE: Ever since I came out to my mum, she has made my life such a misery.

Nothing I do is good enough for her. I am a 20-year-old woman and was 15 when I told her I was gay.

I try to make my mum proud. I did well at school and got a place on an apprenticeship scheme, but she constantly criticises me.

She laughs at my clothes, my walk and how much I earn. It’s constant.

I’m convinced she doesn’t accept me because I am gay. I don’t think she’ll ever be proud of me no matter what I do or how hard I try. My parents are divorced, so my dad isn’t around and I don’t see him much.

I wish I could move out but I can’t afford to. I just want her to accept me the way I am. Is it too much to ask?

It is making me feel so down, I have started having suicidal thoughts.

DEIDRE SAYS: It takes a lot of courage to come out, and it is understandable that you are upset.

You are still the same person but your mum is struggling to accept your sexuality. She may not realise how much she has hurt you.

Reassure her that you are still you. Both of you can find support through Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (fflag.org.uk, 0300 688 0368).

You should see your GP if you continue to have suicidal thoughts.