Thomas C. Waters observes:
It isn’t being gay that is the problem, but rather it is the abuse, humiliation and isolation that come from living in a homophobic environment. David tried the “pray the gay away” and it doesn’t work. It drove him to a nervous breakdown, and almost suicide. Trying to not be gay is what leads people to suicide.
Those that present themselves as successful as ex-gays, fall into 2 groups, from my perspective. Those who claim to be cured, but who are still acting gay on the down low. Most eventually get caught. The other group are those who deal with their self-hatred and lack of self acceptance by turning all of their energies against others. By being so caught up in trying to change others, they can be in denial of their own lack of real happiness.
Case in point: Actor David Yost
