October is officially Mental Health Month, so there’s no better time to turn the spotlight on the psychological and emotional wellbeing of trans people. Because the truth is, trans people experience significantly higher rates of mental health conditions compared to cisgender individuals. And this is something we all need to work together to change.
The hard-hitting facts
In 2018, Stonewall produced the LGBT in Britain: Health report. It highlighted some saddening statistics. Within the past year:
• 71% of trans people had experienced anxiety
• 46% of trans people had considered taking their own life
• 35% of trans people had self-harmed
• 19% of trans people had experienced an eating disorder
What’s affecting trans people’s mental health?
Poor mental health can affect anyone at any time, regardless of their gender, age, sexuality or background. However there are various factors that can adversely affect trans people and contribute to mental health difficulties. Things such as experiencing stigma and discrimination, and feeling a lack of acceptance by friends, family and wider society. Research has shown these issues can lead to gender dysphoria, depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation, as the LGBT in Britain: Health report showed.
Common signs of poor mental health
Everyone is different, but deteriorating mental health can often manifest as some of the following signs:
• Withdrawing and isolating themselves from friends, family, work and society
• Loss of interest in hobbies
• Mood swings
• Lack of energy and persistent tiredness
• Changes to eating and sleeping habits
• Anxiety and agitation
• Difficulty concentrating
• Low self esteem
• Increased substance use, such as alcohol or drugs
• Reckless or risky behaviour
Prioritising your mental health
If you’re worried that your mental health may be suffering, it is important that you reach out and ask for help. Whether it’s a trusted friend, family member or a specialist – you don’t need to suffer in silence.
You can also be proactive about protecting your mental health by:
• Joining a support group: Meeting and connecting with people that have had similar experiences can help to reassure you that you are not alone.
• Practicing self-care: Making an effort to set aside a little time each day to listen to what your mind and body needs can help. Whether it’s running yourself a bath or cooking yourself a nutritious meal, you are reinforcing the idea that you are worthy.
• Enjoying self-expression: Engaging in creative activities like art, writing or music, or experimenting with fashion can be a freeing experience and a great way to express your gender identity.
• Pursuing gender-affirming care: Whether you’re taking social, medical or legal steps to align your identity, doing so can be empowering.
Check in with yourself, and each other
As a society, we all need to do better when it comes to talking openly about mental health. It’s OK not to feel OK, and asking for help shows real strength. Make an effort to check in with friends and family, and if you suspect someone’s mental health is suffering, reach out and offer support.
Reach out for help
There are many organisations that provide help and support for trans people, including:
• Mindline Trans+: This is a confidential emotional, mental health support helpline and signposting service for people who identify as trans, agender, gender fluid and / or non-binary.
• Trans Unite: This is an online resource and directory of local and online support groups for trans and non-binary people in the UK.
• Gender Identity Research & Education Society (GIRES): This is a UK wide organisation which aims to improve the lives of trans and gender diverse people of all ages, including those who are non-binary and non-gender.
• TransActual: This helpful website shares facts about trans rights, UK law, healthcare and transphobia.
• LGBT+ Helpline Scotland: This helpline provides emotional support and information to the entire diversity of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community across Scotland. This includes queer, intersex, asexual people and all identities under the LGBTQIA+ umbrella.
• Scottish Trans: This is the Equality Network project to improve gender identity and gender reassignment equality, rights and inclusion in Scotland.
• LGBT Health and Wellbeing: This charity worke to improve the physical, social, and mental health and wellbeing of LGBTQ+ adults (16+) in Scotland.
We’re here to support you
The gender specialists at Waterside Clinic are proud to provide supportive transgender care within a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment. If you would like to find out more about our services, get in touch with our friendly team on 0131 202 5314, or email us on hello@waterside.clinic.