Supporting Trans People’s Mental Health James Morton & Ellis Ciruello

Report online at Largest trans mental health survey carried out in Europe 889 responses Authors: Jay McNeil, Louis Bailey, Sonja Ellis, James Morton and Maeve Regan

Gender Identity 40% Constant and clear gender identity as a woman 25% Constant and clear gender identity as a man 15% Variable or fluid non-binary gender identity 8% Constant and clear non-binary gender identity 6% Unsure of gender identity 3% No gender identity 3% Other At least 35% did not fit a binary trans narrative Only 13% did not wish to undergo any transition

Trans People’s Mental Health 88% had or felt they had depression 80% had or felt they had stress 75% had or felt they had anxiety

Suicide & Self Harm Self-harm: 53% lifetime prevalence rate, 11% current Self-harm: 53% lifetime prevalence rate, 11% current 35% attempted suicide at least once Suicidal Ideation: 84% lifetime prevalence

Gender Identity Services ‘Waiting for access to the GIC had a devastating effect on my mental health. By the time I came forward for help, I needed it urgently. Such a delay caused me serious mental distress. Moreover, my long-term relationship suffered because of the uncertainty about my transition going forward. Words cannot express the harm done.’

Accessing Mental Health Services 63% reported negative interactions in a mental health setting 29% said that their gender identity was not valued as genuine but seen as a symptom of mental illness 17% told their mental health issues were due to being trans

Impact of Transition on Mental Health 74% reported improved mental health due to transitioning 63% thought about or attempted suicide less after transition 7% thought about or attempted suicide more during transition Statistically significant improvement in depression and quality of life

More Information Trans Mental Health Study 2012 online PDF at: Scottish Transgender Alliance on twitter