I actually have improved my relationship with my parents. It's probably been the best relationship I've had with them to be honest.

I came officially out as exmuslim 5 months ago now (wow I can't believe it's been so long). I was fed up lying to myself and to my family. Luckily I live in the west, so no death penalty or stoning or crap like that.

It was very awkward, emotional etc for the first month or so. Kept asking me why, was it my friends, why don't you read some more, pray, maybe you're possessed by a jinn etc...

Then after much struggle and stuff, my parents kinda accepted it. They're quite religious and brought me up to be very religious, eg madrassa, quran tutoring, hifz, taraweehs, and all that shit.

I was very very scared and anxious all the time about when or if I would tell them. There were times when I wanted to but didn't have the balls to. Most of the time, my opinion was not to ever tell them, or maybe tell them when I have a job and am financially independent, so they can't really kick me out the house or whatever.

Four months ago I also came to the realisation that I was depressed and have been for a few years. I didn't really realise it as depression. Anyway, I told my mum about two months after I told her I was exmuslim and she's been so supportive and helpful. Same with my dad. I feel loved because who I am and not what I believe in (or don't in my case).

They still talk about islam all the time and pray and make dua for me but hey, if that's how they cope that's fine. They were brought up with it and won't change. But they're not hardline, and living in the west has made them very liberal.

I also became vegetarian this year. At first it was met with some conflict but they've accepted it too.

I guess I'm lucky to be living in the west, and also have liberal parents.

I feel so sorry for you guys who are out there in muslim places, living your life as a lie. Stay strong.