Emotional issues for transgendered and transsexual people
Persons who are contemplating the process of transitioning
from male to female (MTF) or female to male (FTM) may
encounter a range of emotional reactions, both in themselves
and among those around them. Some of these reactions may be
anticipated and prepared for, while others may be unanticipated and
difficult to manage.
From a very early age, our culture makes a large and specific
set of assumptions about individuals based on perceptions of
gender. Sex role socialization is a powerful force that our
culture uses to define "appropriate" and "inappropriate"
boundaries and activities for each gender. Transgender
individuals often experience anxiety and stress as they
attempt to fit into a gender role that may match the outward
appearance of their physical body but not their emotions or
their more internal sense of their gender.
The decision to transition is often the result of a long and
difficult process. Many transgendered individuals identify a
sense of great relief that comes with finally being able to
acknowledge their true selves and live in the body and gender
role that is most natural for them. Transgendered people often
feel enormous satisfaction at watching their bodies change
with hormone treatments and surgeries, and at being seen by
others as they feel themselves to be inside.
Although societal acceptance of transsexual and transgendered
people is far from complete, there is a growing and active
community of transgendered people, both MTF and FTM. There are
also increasing numbers of books, online information, and
local support for trans people. To find out about this
information, contact your local LGBTIQ community center.
Difficulties
The transitioning process can also bring with it a new set of
difficulties (and sometimes dangers) that result from the
reactions of acquaintances, loved ones, and the larger society
to the transitioning process.
New problems that may arise include:
- Employers and colleagues who are not prepared for,
understanding of, or sympathetic to the issues of transgendered
individuals: Many individuals find themselves either fired
from their jobs or facing workplace hostilities that force
them out of employment. The risk that individuals will
experience acts of hostility, and even violence directed
against them, is real.
- Family members and friends who are not able to understand or
accommodate the change process: Many transgendered persons
begin the transition process long after they have married and
raised their own families. Spouses, domestic partners,
parents, children, and close friends may be confused by the
transition that is occurring and may need education and
support to help them deal with what is happening. Sometimes
children remain emotionally close to the transitioning parent;
at other times, children have taken years to reconcile with the
transitioned parent.
Most importantly, the person who is in the midst of transition
her or himself may be surprised at the feelings that emerge
during the process. Individuals that have socialized and seen their
whole lives as male may experience significant difficulties as
they begin to live and function as female, and visa versa. The
combination of physical and emotional issues that can emerge
can make the transitioning process a time of increased stress
and risk for symptoms of depression, substance abuse, and
anxiety. Despite this reality, most transgender individuals
report that the joy they experience in becoming more fully
themselves makes the journey worthwhile. For many trans
individuals, this journey is both sacred and empowering.
For more information:
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Q & A
What does transsexual mean?
Why might transsexual and transgendered
people have special
health concerns?
Emotional issues for transgendered and transsexual people
Frequency of mental health problems in transgendered people
Related Pages
Mental health & depression among LGBTIQ
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