Trans Youth at Risk of Depression - Young Transgender

[LGBTI News]

A new study conducted by La Trobe University has discovered members of the transgender community face higher than average levels of anxiety, depression and suicide ideation.

The report, From Blues to Rainbows, conducted by Dr Elizabeth Smith at La Trobe University, in association with beyondblue, suggested familial support was integral in maintaining the mental health and well being of young people transitioning – with majority of young trans people facing discrimination and bullying.

Smith said a supportive school environment where teachers used the correct pronouns and appropriate language, assisted in ensuring trans students were less likely to be bullied, but much still needed to be done.

“Where participants had support from their parents, they were half as likely to be diagnosed with depression and more likely to seek professional help if needed,” Dr Smith said. “Mental health was also significantly better if peer, teacher and school relationships were posit.”

beyondblue CEO Georgie Harman said it was deeply troubling that gender diverse and transgender young people experienced such high rates of abuse at an age and stage when many young people were exploring and coming to understand their identity and sexuality.

Read more... Trans Youth at Risk of Depression › Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender & Intersex News