Transitioning
Transitioning is a very personal experience.
Gender discomfort can start at an early age. The onset of puberty can make it more difficult, and cause emotional distress that may lead to anxiety and/ or depression in adolescence.
There are numerous possible factors during transitioning that may also fuel emotional discomfort:
Loneliness and isolation
Being Bullying
Academic stress
Learning disabilities
Relationship changes (Family and friends)
Difficult home environments (divorce, breakups, poverty, neglect, moving)
New country/ new language
Medical disorders
Abuse
Substance Abuse
Identity Issues/ Gender dysmorphia
Loss of a hobbies or activities
The list goes on…
Understanding and addressing these issues can go a long way to ease and treat emotional distress when considering transitioning.
Coming out may be a gradual process, either first with family members or friends, or online. However, no matter how much support may or may not be presenting, the transition can be a daunting process with many questions and unknowns. Connecting with understanding and knowledgeable professionals is important, as it can help smooth out the process. It is important to get as much information as possible when you decide to undergo this process.
Transitioning as a trans-male may lead to depression secondary to hormonal manipulation with the decrease in estrogen. Within the first few months, the addition of testosterone, can lead to welcoming changes such as increased facial hair and lowering of the voice. It can also lead to some surprising changes in mood such as increased feeling of aggression which may take some effort to understand and control.
Transitioning as a trans-female can also lead to welcoming changes such as breast development, decreased muscle mass, and changes in body hair. It can also lead to becoming more sensitive and even tearful.
As a healthcare practitioner, the one piece of advice I hope anyone who might be transitioning considers is this:
When choosing to start hormone therapy, make sure to treat any underlying mental health issues ahead of time, and if possible address some of the possible factors that can add to the stressors listed above.
After transition, it is possible to experience self-esteem issues, similar to a young adolescent first experiencing changes that come along with puberty.
Another helpful way to prepare? Add in these Healthy Lifestyle Pillars:
Healthy non-inflammatory diet
Exercise
Good Sleep Hygiene
Effective coping skills
Supportive Community (the most important!)
For more information on the Healthy Lifestyle Pillars, click here!
Masculinizing hormone therapy:
There are numerous sources for further information on the possible short term and long term effects of Testosterone. Ones I’d suggest are the article by Michigan Medical School, Mayo Clinic, and a particular U of T article.
Disclaimer: Although I am a registered MD, information on this web site is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professionals or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging. Please view this website’s “Disclaimer” for further details.