As Pride Month unfolds, a time dedicated to celebrating victories and acknowledging the struggles of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) community, we must shine a spotlight on an issue often not spoken about enough — transgender mental health. At the Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute (PPI), our commitment to deepening the understanding of the unique mental health challenges faced by the transgender community is unwavering. We are equally devoted to promoting strategies for resilience and personal growth.
Transgender individuals, those who identify as a gender different from their assigned sex at birth, confront unique societal, personal and systemic challenges that can significantly impact their mental health. Pervasive realities of discrimination, stigma and systemic bias can give rise to mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression and distress. Alarmingly, suicide rates among transgender individuals are higher than the general population.
Research underscores the magnitude of these challenges. For instance, a sobering study conducted by the University of Pittsburgh in 2020 revealed that approximately 85% of transgender adolescents had seriously considered suicide, and over half had made at least one suicide attempt. This underscores the urgent need to address mental health issues within this vulnerable population.
Recognizing these challenges is the first step toward creating a more inclusive and supportive environment. At PPI, we believe there are three key areas that need our attention:
Lack of Acceptance
Stigma and discrimination are among the most significant obstacles to mental health for transgender individuals. These can appear in various forms, from microaggressions and harassment to explicit violence and rejection by loved ones. The persistent battle against stigma can often lead to chronic stress, exacerbating feelings of anxiety and depression.
Healthcare Inequality
Global healthcare systems often fail to meet the specific needs of transgender individuals due to a lack of training and awareness among healthcare professionals and discriminatory practices and policies. This frequently results in subpar care, delayed or inaccessible treatments and a deep mistrust in healthcare providers.
In Pennsylvania, Penn State Health offers services that help to meet the specific healthcare needs of the transgender community.
Internalized Negative Beliefs
Internalized transphobia and transmisia can stem from absorbing negative societal beliefs and attitudes about being transgender. This can lead to diminished self-esteem, self-worth and a negative impact on overall mental health.
Dealing with mental health is a complex process for everyone, and for the transgender community, it becomes even more difficult due to specific stressors like gender dysphoria. This necessitates unique coping strategies. Below are a handful of tactics that can help alleviate these challenges and promote mental well-being:
Clothing and Personal Style
Transgender individuals may find relief from gender dysphoria by dressing in the clothing of their preferred gender. This can include ‘under-dressing’ or making subtle changes to personal style, such as adopting a new hairstyle, using skincare products or applying subtle makeup. These measures can serve as a reminder of their identity and alleviate feelings of distress. It’s also worth noting that engaging in these activities gradually can help prepare for an eventual social transition.
Digital Presence
Engaging online as one’s preferred gender can be a helpful way to express oneself and interact with others in a safe and understanding environment. This can include participation in online forums, social media platforms and support groups.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
For some, the use of gender-affirming hormone therapy can be an effective way to align physical characteristics with their chosen gender identity. This can help reduce the dysphoria experienced by individuals whose physical appearance doesn’t align with their gender identity. It is critical, however, to undertake this step under the guidance of healthcare professionals who can monitor the process and provide necessary support and advice.
At PPI we promote the following strategies to create a meaningful difference:
Increasing Accessibility to Culturally Competent Healthcare
The need for healthcare services that are informed, sensitive and responsive to the unique experiences of transgender individuals cannot be overstated. This involves educating healthcare professionals about transgender health issues, creating safe and non-discriminatory healthcare environments and adopting practices that affirm and respect patients’ gender identities.
Community Support
Having a robust, supportive community can have a profound role in promoting mental health. Peer support groups, online communities and organizations dedicated to LGBTQ+ issues can offer a safe space for transgender individuals to share their experiences, feel validated and gain encouragement.
Mental Health Services
Mental health services can help transgender individuals understand their feelings and thoughts and learn effective coping strategies. Access to mental health services tailored to their specific needs can also play a key role in addressing mental health concerns.
Advocacy and Allyship
Support from allies, who might not identify as LGBTQ+ but stand in solidarity with the community, is critical. Allies can play a significant role in challenging stigmatizing attitudes, advocating for rights and inclusivity and providing emotional support to transgender individuals.
As we celebrate Pride Month, let’s also reflect on the unique mental health challenges faced by transgender individuals. Together, our collective efforts can create a world where every transgender person feels accepted, supported and free to express their identity. At PPI, we’re dedicated to this cause. Together, we can construct a safer, more inclusive world for all.