Supporting the Mental Health of Trans People: A Call for Change
On Trans Day of Remembrance (TDOR), observed annually on November 20, we pause to honor the lives of transgender individuals lost to violence, discrimination, and systemic neglect. This solemn day is not just a moment to reflect on the past but also an opportunity to confront the urgent need for societal change. It calls us to create a world where trans lives are not only remembered but valued and supported.
Mental health is a crucial part of this conversation. Many transgender individuals face overwhelming mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation, driven by stigma, discrimination, and barriers to accessing affirming care. As we mourn those we have lost, we must also advocate for the living—shining a light on the systemic issues that prevent trans people from receiving the compassionate mental health care they deserve.
This blog is a call to action for allies, providers, and advocates. By educating ourselves, dismantling harmful barriers, and fostering inclusive care, we can ensure that trans individuals are not only remembered on days like TDOR but are empowered to heal, thrive, and live full, authentic lives.
“I can’t help but wonder how my life might have been different... if anyone who saw me during treatment had recognized my gender dysphoria and shown me ways to address it without harming my body.”
—Anonymous person, reflecting on their mental health treatment experience.
This poignant quote encapsulates the immense challenges trans individuals face in seeking adequate mental health care. Entering treatment is daunting for anyone, but trans people often encounter additional barriers:
Will these providers have experience working with trans individuals?
Will my gender identity be blamed for my mental health challenges?
Will they respect my pronouns and gender identity?
What if I face discrimination or bullying during treatment?
Sadly, these concerns are not unwarranted. Studies show that one-third of trans individuals delay or avoid seeking healthcare altogether, fearing mistreatment or judgment. In fact, the trans community has long struggled to access equitable and informed care:
Trans individuals are four times more likely to live in poverty and are less likely to have health insurance.
Many medical schools devote fewer than five hours to LGBTQ+ health education—some provide none at all.
Around half of trans patients report needing to educate their doctors on trans-specific health issues.
Over 70% of trans people have experienced discrimination in healthcare settings.
The hashtag #TransHealthFail illustrates these issues, allowing trans people to share their experiences of inadequate or harmful care. Here are a few recent examples:
“I went to the ER for a broken wrist. They spent more time questioning my gender than addressing my injury.”
“My doctor insisted on a pregnancy test before treating my sprained ankle, even after I explained I’m a trans man without a uterus.”
“They refused to call me by my name until I legally changed it, despite it being in my chart.”
These posts highlight the need for systemic change in healthcare to better serve the trans community.
Addressing the Unique Challenges of Trans Mental Health
Trans individuals often face unique stressors contributing to mental health struggles, such as societal stigma, dysphoria, and discrimination. Research shows that trans people are disproportionately affected by anxiety, depression, and suicidality compared to the general population. It's vital that providers recognize and respect the complex relationship between a trans person's mental health and their lived experience.
For instance, gender dysphoria might manifest differently across individuals. Some might attempt to suppress physical characteristics they associate with their birth-assigned gender, while others might struggle with body-related distress rooted in societal pressures. In all cases, affirming care and culturally competent support are crucial for effective treatment.
What Can We Do?
If you’re a friend or ally of a trans person struggling with mental health issues:
Use the correct pronouns and apologize sincerely if you make a mistake.
Be patient, listen actively, and acknowledge their experiences without judgment.
Encourage them to seek help from affirming providers while offering emotional support.
If you’re a provider:
Educate yourself on trans-specific health issues so your patients don’t have to educate you.
Recognize that mental health struggles are not caused by a person’s gender identity but by societal and systemic barriers they face.
Create an inclusive, affirming environment for all patients, regardless of their gender identity.
By addressing the gaps in healthcare and mental health services for trans individuals, we can reduce barriers to treatment and help more people access the care they need. Trans people deserve affirming, respectful care—like all of us.