Gender Identity

Gender identity is a person’s felt psychological sense of their gender. Gender is recognized as a spectrum and an individual can identify as male, female, no gender, both genders, or anywhere in between. Individuals who identify as cis-gender have a felt psychological sense that their gender is the same as the physical features that together make up the sex they were assigned at birth such as their genitalia, chromosomal make up, and reproductive organs. Individuals who identify as transgender have a felt psychological sense that their gender is different from the physical features that together make up the sex they were assigned at birth.

As they become aware that their felt sense of their gender does not match the sex they were assigned at birth they experience gender dysphoria or extreme uncomfortableness with their body. This can cause them to experience anxiety and depression. Often transgender individuals want to take action to align their physical self with their felt sense of their gender identity. As a result, individuals who identify as transgender may undergo gender confirming surgery. This is a big decision and individuals considering this decision may grapple with fears such as whether they will be accepted by family and friends, whether they will be able to find a romantic partner, being subjected to violence and discrimination, the process of the surgery itself, and whether they will be satisfied with the outcome.

Disappointingly individuals who identify as transgender or somewhere else along the gender spectrum often face discrimination, lack of acceptance, social isolation, stigma, and violence. Unfortunately, institutions and professionals such as doctors and employers also engage in discrimination against this population. The negativity this population faces often leads to the development of mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation.

If you are struggling with making the decision that is right for you regarding gender confirming surgery or if you are struggling with mental health issues resulting from discrimination and violence please know that you are not alone. We provide a safe non-judgemental space where you can share your struggles and receive help in navigating them.