Gender dysphoria is not the same as simply conforming to the stereotypical gender role behavior we are expected to conform to. It involves severe distress because of a very strong and pervasive need and desire to be another gender. This can be expressed in different ways. 

One very common way is through symptoms of a mood disorder, depression, or anxiety. Many individuals can also experience academic and social problems. A caring mental health professional can help with gender dysphoria-related mental health concerns. 

Mental health providers who are culturally competent in providing care to individuals dealing with gender dysphoria can help them safely explore their gender identity and find the gender role that feels the most comfortable for them. This helps to ease their distress which is extremely disruptive to their lives. All gender dysphoria-related care is individualized and what might be helpful for one individual might not be for another. 

Some options for treatment and care could include changes in gender expression and role, surgery, behavioral therapy, and/or hormone therapy. If you or someone you love has gender dysphoria, please seek a qualified medical or mental health professional who has expertise and cultural competency in the care of gender-diverse people. The appropriate providers will screen you for mental health concerns that might need to be worked through first, such as clinical anxiety or clinical depression. 

When these concerns are not addressed first it can make it much more difficult for individuals to appropriately explore their gender identity and ease their gender dysphoria. 

Summerville Women’s Mental Health Studio offers culturally competent mental health counseling and therapy for gender dysphoria. 

Register and schedule an appointment at https://api.portal.therapyappointment.com/n/public/clientRegistration/?therapistId=23A44F5EBEF441C8A7F8DC23FBAE9506

Text or call us at ‪(843) 695-9974‬

Reference https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gender-dysphoria/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20475262