Depression and gender dysphoria

Abstract

Transgender youth, as a whole, are resilient and healthy young people, though a substantial minority will be at risk of depression and suicide. This chapter reviews three cases of transgender youth, describing their and their families' journeys to come to terms with their gender identities, including periods of depression and self-injury. Existing literature is also reviewed to elaborate the nature, extent, and causes of depression among transgender individuals. The therapeutic approach to transgender youth presenting with depression or self-injury is discussed, along with the importance of family support and intervention. The process of determining whether to immediately refer depressed transgender youth for affirming medical interventions is also discussed.