Transgender and LGBTQ support
Gender Dysphoria (GD) is a feeling of discomfort or distress that might occur in people whose gender identity might differ from their sex assigned at birth or sex-related physical characteristics. Transgender and gender diverse people may experience GD at some point in their lives but not all do – and not all people with GD identify as transgender. GD is not a mental health illness but it can lead to the development of mental health problems.
A transgender person is someone whose gender identity, or their internal sense of being male, female or something else, does not match the sex they were born with.
Many live according to their gender identity, in the way that they present themselves to the world.
Some trans people, not all, undergo medical treatments to make them more compatible with their gender identity. Treatments can include hormone therapy, surgery and voice therapy.
These social, physical and legal changes are known as transitioning.
People who are ‘non-binary’ do not consider themselves to have solely male or female gender identity, or they take a different approach to gender.
The following organisations may be able to help if you or someone you know needs support:
Mermaids is a charity supporting transgender, non-binary and gender-exploring children, young people and their families. They have a helpline and both web and text chat support
Stonewall is a charity which provides information, support and guidance on LGBTQ+ inclusion
The Beaumont Society is the largest and longest established transgender support group in the UK – they offer help and advice, information and access to online support groups
The Brunswick Centre has promotes mental health and suicide prevention within LGBTQ+ communities for more than 30 years.
LGBT Foundation provides a wide range of resources, information and services, including support groups, helplines and counselling
Mindline Trans + – Provide an emotional and mental health support helpline for anyone identifying as transgender, non-binary and genderfluid, as well as support for family members and friends
MindOut Is a mental health service run by and for lesbians, gay men, bisexual, trans, and queer people. they work to improve the mental health and wellbeing of LGBTQ+ communities and to make mental health a community concern.
Terrence Higgins Trust – this link provides information on clinics and resources for trans and non-binary people
TransUnite – find a transgender support group near you
Available here soon; listen to our interview with trans-activist, George Evans, on Show 15 of Jordan’s Space. For this and all previous shows, follow this link.
Watch the YouTube video; ‘My Transgender Journey’ by George by following this link.
