Gender dysphoria, formerly known as gender identity disorder, describes intense and persistent feelings of identifying with a gender other than the one assigned at birth. Individuals with gender dysphoria often take measures to live in harmony with their internal gender identity. Doing so with the support of an affirming therapist can greatly improve mental health outcomes.

Gender VS Sex

The terms gender and sex are often used interchangeably, though they mean different things. Gender refers to the feelings, attitudes and behaviors associated with biological sex, whereas sex refers to biological features such as genitals and sex hormone levels.

People with gender dysphoria may choose to live in a variety of different ways. For instance, a person who was born with female sex characteristics, may quietly identify as a man, but still choose to present themselves as a woman in public. Another woman who identifies as male may choose to dress in clothes that are typically worn by men, while still another woman may decide to seek hormone therapy or gender reassignment surgery.

Managing Gender Dysphoria

While hormone therapy and reassignment surgery are options, these options come with their own risks and side effects. Many with gender dysphoria choose not to seek medical treatments but rather, decide to work with a mental health professional who specializes in treating those with gender dysphoria.

Psychotherapy can be very helpful in facilitating self-discovery and navigating powerful emotions. Working with the right therapist can help you feel comfortable in your own skin so you can lead a fulfilling life.

I am a gender affirming therapist and would be happy to talk with you about how I can support you with your goals related to gender dysphoria.

SOURCES:

https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/gender-dysphoria/what-is-gender-dysphoria

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/conditions/gender-dysphoria

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gender-dysphoria/symptoms-causes/syc-20475255