I know what you're going through is very stressful and scary, TheSquids. Just be good to yourself and give yourself time. Taking the allies in diversity class sounds like a good thing. It sounds, though, like you're worried about getting your parents to sign the permission slip. But you don't have to go into a big explanation about it, just tell them one of your best friends is taking it and it sounds interesting and you want to do it too. Are your parents loving and supportive to you in general?

And I hear your concerns about speaking to your counselor. It definitely is a good idea to talk to someone, but it's also important to find someone who you can trust and who you know will keep your conversation confidential. If not a counselor, perhaps another teacher, or even a friend?

Lastly, please under no circumstance hurt or harm yourself. I know it can seem really overwhelming at times, but it's true what they say: it does get better!

If you need to, you can always call the Trans Lifeline--their number in the U.S. is 877-565-8860. They have trained volunteers who will listen and talk with you

Trans Lifeline