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Trans and mental health

Transgender people report higher rates of depression, anxiety disorders, autism, ADHD, eating disorders and suicidality than cisgender controls.

Increased prevalence

Transgender people report higher rates of depression, anxiety disorders, autism, ADHD, eating disorders and suicidality than cisgender controls. The 'minority stress' model explains part of this in terms of discrimination, isolation and internal conflicts.

Effect of transition

Research shows that for many transgender people transition reduces dysphoria-related complaints, but does not automatically resolve comorbid conditions. The Dutch cohort study by Wiepjes (2020) showed that suicide death remains elevated after transition.

Implications for care

International guidelines point to the importance of integrated mental health care alongside medical transition. This prevents underlying problems from being left untreated and offers support for broader identity development.