______________

​

US & INTERNATIONAL

​

10 Ways to ‘reach out’ when you’re struggling with your mental health

By Sam Dylan Finch. Let's Queer Things Up! blog post. 2018. Sam is a trans blogger of their site Let's Queer Things Up!

“Reaching out" is this skill we’re somehow expected to know, yet it’s never taught and rarely modeled for us. It’s this vague, hopeful sentiment that people throw around, without ever really defining it. What are we asking people to do or say? It’s not exactly clear.

So I want to get more specific. We need to be more specific.

I don’t know if an article like this could’ve saved my friend. But what I do know is that we need to normalize asking for help and talk about what that might look like, rather than pretending it’s a simple and intuitive thing to do.

Maybe then, we can reach people sooner. We can meet them more compassionately.    And we can find better ways to support them.

So if you’re struggling but you don’t know what to say? I get it.

Let’s talk about it."

​

2022 National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health

By the Trevor Project.   (US)

"The Trevor Project’s 2022 National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health demonstrates that rates of suicidal thoughts have trended upward among LGBTQ young people over the last three years, making our life-saving work all the more important.

    Capturing the experiences of nearly 34,000 LGBTQ youth ages 13 to 24 across the United States, with 45% of respondents being LGBTQ youth of color and 48% being transgender or nonbinary, our fourth annual national survey is one of the most diverse surveys of LGBTQ youth ever conducted.

     These data provide critical insights into some of the unique suicide risk factors faced by LGBTQ youth, top barriers to mental health care, and the negative impacts of COVID-19 and relentless anti-transgender legislation. This research also highlights several ways in which we can all support the LGBTQ young people in our lives—and help prevent suicide."

 

Art therapy with transgender and gender-expansive children and teenagers

By Kelly Darke and Shannon Scott Miller. Nov 2020.  (US)

"An educational and inspirational book that offers practical guidance for art therapists working with transgender and gender-expansive youth and their families. It provides art therapy goals, recommended treatments and coping skills to use with this client group.

    Each chapter looks at how art therapy can address a different concern or aspect of the experience, such as transitioning, bullying, and recognizing or building a support system. It includes detailed case studies and cutting-edge art therapy interventions, which help young people to express the emotions surrounding the discovery of gender identity, the transition process, and self-care.

REVIEW:

If you are an art therapist who finds yourself working with a transgender or gender-expansive child or teen and you need a good foundation to support them, this book is for you! Art Therapy with Transgender and Gender-Expansive Children and Teenagers is an excellent introduction to providing affirming therapy from an art therapy lens. Throughout the text, it is clear Shannon Scott-Miller and Kelly Darke are passionate advocates, art therapists, and educators. They:

* break down complex topics into manageable chunks, making it accessible for the art therapist who has not previously worked with transgender or gender-expansive children and teenagers

* critically look at implicit bias with gender expression and gender identity, giving specific art directives assisting in investigating individual, family and cultural bias in a gentle, yet critically reflexive way

* provide case studies as examples to aid in the learning process integrating ideas of affirming therapy throughout the book

    The developmental stages of gender development and its clinical implications is examined with supporting case studies and references. Gender Dysphoria is highlighted in the text with diverse examples of how art therapy can support treatment. Scott-Miller and Darke look at systems level assessment and support building for the client. Working primarily with transgender clients, I can attest to the importance of assessing for support and the impact of systemic oppression on the mental health of transgender and gender-diverse individuals. (The authors) lay the foundation that is needed for working with gender-expansive and transgender children and teens in art therapy. If you find yourself needing some direction and support in this area, this book is a great place to start.

                          ---- Jennifer Rozell-Whitaker LPC, ATR-BC  (they/them, she/her)

​

The autistic trans guide to life

By Yenn Purkis & Wenn Lawson. Mar 2021.

"This essential survival guide gives autistic trans and/or non-binary adults all the tools and strategies they need to live as their very best self.

   Blending personal accounts with evidence-based insights and up-to-date information, and written from a perspective of empowerment and self-acceptance, the book promotes pride, strength and authenticity, covering topics including self-advocacy, mental health and camouflaging and masking as well as key moments in life such as coming out or transitioning socially and/or physically.

   Written by two leading autistic trans activists, this book honestly charts what life is like as an autistic trans person and is vital, life-affirming reading."

​

Counseling transgender and non-binary youth: The essential guide

By Irwin Krieger. 2017.  (US)

“There are growing numbers of youth who identify as transgender, and as a result, clinicians and counselors are in need of an informed resource that covers the basics of gender identity and expression. This book responds to that need by setting out clear advice and support on working with transgender and non-binary youth with regard to their identity, mental health, personal and family life and their medical and social transition as well as offering additional resources and reading lists.
  Along with the basic information needed to understand transgender clients, Irwin Krieger applies this general knowledge to work with transgender teens at what can be the most critical and problematic stage in a trans person's life. Specifically, issues of gender identity awareness and expression for youth along with the mental and physical challenges that puberty presents are discussed. This guide will inform counselors and therapists to support transgender teens in their practice, while providing the necessary tools for opening up the conversation on transgender issues in families and schools.”

    Irwin Krieger, LCSW is a clinical social worker who provided psychotherapy in a private practice setting for LGBT individuals, couples and families for over 30 years. Irwin has worked extensively with transgender teens and adults and their families

    Irwin has presented at the World Professional Assn for Transgender Health Symposium in Atlanta, the US Professional Assn for Transgender Health Symposium in Los Angeles, the Philadelphia Trans-Health Conference, and the Maine Academy of Family Physicians. University presentations include Yale, Quinnipiac, Ursinus, University of Hartford and UConn. Irwin was the keynote speaker at the GSA Summit at Eastern CT State University in the fall of 2011, the CT School Counselors Conference in 2017, the GeMS Conferences at Boston Children’s Hospital in 2013 and 2015, and Transgender Family Day at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Hospital in 2017. From 2012 to 2016 he was a consultant for the Transgender Care Team at Yale Health Plan.

​

Gender affirmative model: An interdisciplinary approach to supporting transgender and gender expansive children

By Colt Keo-meier. Edited by Diane Ehrensaft. 2018.  (US)

"This warm and timely book provides mental health professionals with a guide to the Gender Affirmative Model, the leading approach for working with transgender and gender expansive children and their families. Using an easy-to-follow framework, readers will learn how to facilitate and enable children to live in their authentic gender with necessary social supports.

    The authors describe how to address distress and build resilience within children and families, while also strengthening awareness of the complex interplay of cultural factors with gender. They also address the complex psychological, social and community challenges faced by transgender and gender expansive children, as well as the potential mental health struggles that can arise as a result of bullying and more subtle forms of societal discrimination."

​

Gender-affirming surgery linked to better mental health in transgender people

By Jessica Cerretani.  Boston Children’s Hospital. Posted on May 2021.  (US)

“Now, results of a new study show what a number of researchers, clinicians, and trans patients already suspected: Gender-affirming surgery is associated with better mental health.

    To learn more about the relationship between gender-affirming surgery and psychological well-being, Anthony Almazan, a fourth-year medical student at Harvard Medical School, and Dr. Alex Keuroghlian of The Fenway Institute reviewed data from 27,715 trans and gender-diverse adults who were part of the 2015 U.S. Transgender Survey, the largest set of information on this population.“

​

Let's Queer Things Up!  - LGBTQ

By Sam Dylan Finch. Blog.

This link is to Sam's LGBTQ-related blogs. Sam also blogs about mental illness.

"I’m a 29-year-old writer and positive psychology practitioner, living in Portland, Oregon. He or they pronouns are fine by me! I started Let’s Queer Things Up! years ago, hoping to empower LGBTQ+ people to take command of their mental health. LQTU is equal parts advice blog and personal journey; I’ve written about everything from body image, to ADHD hacks, to the simple joys of life 'after recovery'.”

​​

Most gender dysphoria established by age 7, study finds
Cedars Sinai, June 2020. (US)
“Cedars-Sinai research reveals health impact on transgender people from lack of early support and intervention”
​

National survey on LGBTQ youth mental health 2020
By The Trevor Project. (US)
“Building on the findings of our inaugural survey, it provides critical insights around LGBTQ youth mental health disparities, discrimination, housing instability, barriers to affirming health care, subjection to conversion therapy, and suicide. The survey also highlights how safe spaces and social support positively impact the well-being of LGBTQ youth. Representing the experiences of over 40,000 LGBTQ youth ages 13-24 across the United States, it is the largest survey of LGBTQ youth mental health ever conducted.

    This wealth of data highlights the resiliency and diversity of LGBTQ young people and demonstrates how important affirming one’s identity is to their health and wellness. Findings from this cross-sectional survey also point to best practices for how to support LGBTQ young people and contribute positively to their mental health.“

​

Supporting transgender autistic youth and adults:  A guide for professionals and families

By Finn V. Gratton. Oct 2019.  (US)

"Providing advice on how professionals working with autistic trans youth and adults can tailor their practice to best serve their clients and how parents can support their trans autistic children, this book increases awareness of the large overlap between trans identities and autism.

    By including chapters on gender diversity basics, neuroqueer trauma and how to support neuroqueer individuals, this book sets out strategies for creating more effective support that takes into account the unique experiences of trans people on the spectrum.

    Written by a therapist who identifies as neuroqueer, this book is the perfect companion for professionals who want to increase their knowledge of the experiences and needs of their trans autistic clients."

​

​Trans and autistic: Stories from life at the intersection

By Noah Adams and Bridget Liang. Jul 2020.

"This ground-breaking book foregrounds the voices of autistic trans people as they speak candidly about how their autism and gender identity intersects and the impact this has on their life.
    Drawing upon a wealth of interviews with transgender people on the autism spectrum, the book explores experiences of coming out, with self-discovery, healthcare, family, work, religion and community support, to help dispel common misunderstandings around gender identity and autism, whilst allowing autistic trans people to see their own neurodiverse experiences reflected in these interviews.
    An incisive introduction clearly sets out up-to-date research and thinking, before each chapter draws together key findings from the interviews, along with advice and support for those providing support to autistic trans individuals. Both accessible and authoritative, Trans and Autistic is an essential publication for autistic trans people, their families, and professionals wanting to understand and support their clients better."

 

The trans self-care workbook:  A coloring book and journal for trans and non-binary people

By Theo Lorenz. Oct 2020.  (US)

Theo is non-binary and uses they/them pronouns. 

“If you're transgender, non-binary, or any other gender under the wide and wonderful trans umbrella, this book is for you. A creative journal and workbook with a difference, this book combines coloring pages celebrating trans identity, beauty and relationships, with practical advice, journaling prompts and space for reflection to promote self-affirmation and wellbeing.
  Drawing on CBT and mindfulness techniques, the book covers topics including body positivity and neutrality, coming out, euphoria and dysphoria, building new friendships and navigating relationships with your friends and family, and is the go-to resource for anybody who has ever felt the pressure to conform to a singular definition or narrative.
  Theo Nicole Lorenz's heart-warming and empowering illustrations of trans people will provide reassurance that you are never alone, and are a reminder to always treat yourself kindly.”

---- The Trans Self-Care Workbook is the warm, consensual hug of affirmation that every trans and nonbinary person needs. Wisdom and insight about being trans is accompanied by beautiful illustrations. No matter whether you are exploring your gender or you have been out for a long time, this workbook will be a loving gift to yourself.  ----Dr. Alex Iantaffi, Author of How To Understand Your Gender; Life Isn't Binary; and Gender Trauma
---- From the first comforting page to the last joyous exercise, the Trans Self-Care Workbook will help you to discover more about the trans movement and your own heart. Page after page invites you build a kind accepting relationship with yourself. What a glorious journey!   ----Jeffrey Marsh, the first nonbinary activist on national TV, and author of the bestselling How To Be You
---- Theo Lorenz's Trans Self-Care Workbook is just the gentle friend and fierce ally that you need to guide you through your gender journey. Packed with beautiful pics to colour and awesome activities, the book covers everything from navigating dysphoria and euphoria, to coming out, to finding community. Theo's kind humour comes through on every page, reminding us that we're all trans enough, that wherever we are on our journey is okay, and that however tough it can be at times, we will get through this. I have so much love for this book.   ----Meg-John Barker, co-author of How to Understand Your Gender, Life Isn't Binary, and Hell Yeah Self-Care

 

​​Transgender and gender-diverse individuals are more likely to be autistic and report higher autistic traits
By a team of researchers at the University of Cambridge. 2020.  (UK)
 

Transgender mental health

By Eric Yarbrough MD. (psychiatrist). Book. 2018.   (US)

"Societal awareness of transgender and gender-nonconforming (TGNC) individuals is greater now than at any point in history, owing to the education of policy makers by advocacy organizations, the education of clinicians by research and scientific organizations, and the education of the general public by movies, television, and other media. However, most professional training programs for mental health professionals provide little to no education regarding gender diversity.

    Transgender Mental Health squarely addresses this deficit. This guide forgoes clinical jargon in favor of accessible, straightforward language designed to educate clinicians on how to address the basic needs of the TGNC community, thus increasing access to mental health care for TGNC individuals, which has been sorely lacking to this point.

    Rich in cases drawn from real clinical experience, the guide is organized into four sections.

• The first section includes a discussion of the gender spectrum and offers a history of the TGNC experience. This section also covers advocacy, particularly letter writing for gender marker changes and gender-affirming surgeries.

• The second section is dedicated to mental health factors in TGNC care and examines sex and sexuality, support systems, and transitioning and detransitioning.

• The third of the guide's sections addresses general physical health with TGNC individuals, including masculinizing and feminizing hormones, with an eye toward preparing practitioners to address the social, psychological, and physical needs of their patients.

• The final section discusses all major gender-affirming surgical procedures, as well as nonsurgical interventions.

   Each chapter includes summarizing key points and review questions at the end that not only test the reader's comprehension of the material but also provide additional information on the complicated political, social, and cultural barriers that many TGNC individuals experience as they attempt to secure adequate care.

Relevant for a range of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, psychologists, social workers, family therapists, and school counselors, Transgender Mental Health is a simple yet thorough primer on the complex topic of gender diversity."

About Eric Yarbrough:  "I...completed my psychiatry residency at St. Luke's Roosevelt Hospital in New York City.  Although I work with anyone, my career goals have been focused on the LGBTQ population serving both as president of AGLP: The Association of LGBTQ Psychiatrists and Director of Psychiatry at Callen-Lorde Community Health Center, one of the largest LGBTQ Medical Centers in the world."

​

The Trevor Project

​* NOTE: Crisis phone lines NOT available in Canada – go to:   TransLifeline Hotline  or  Kids Help Phone *

”The Trevor Project is the leading [US] organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning (LGBTQ) young people under 25.”  The ​Resource Page has good information.

​

​​Warning signs of suicide -  Learning the warning signs of suicide is a huge part of preventing a crisis
By The Trevor Project. (US)
“Although emotional ups and downs are normal, sometimes a person who is suicidal gives certain signs or hints that something is wrong. Knowing these major warning signs can help you connect someone you care about to support if they need it – even if that person is yourself.

Preventing suicide:

*   Learn the warning signs, the facts, and how you can help prevent suicide

*   Well-being on Instagram

*   Guide to being an ally to transgender and non-binary youth

*   How LGBTQ youth can cope with anxiety and stress during COVID-19

*   Supporting black LGBTQ youth mental health

*   Black and LGBTQ: Approaching intersectional conversations."

​​

What is gender dysphoria?
Written by Kimberly Holland.  Medically reviewed by Timothy J. Legg, Ph.D., CRNP.  2018.  (US)
 

​Yes I have a mental disorder.  But it’s not being transgender.
By Sam Dylan Finch. “Let’s Queer Things Up!”  blog post.  2018

Interests:  Queer/Trans Identity, Mental Health, Cats.
​

Young adult psychological outcome after puberty suppression and gender reassignment
By Annelou L.C. de Vries, Jenifer K. McGuire, Thomas D. Steensma, Eva C.F. Wagenaar, Theo A.H. Doreleijers and Peggy T. Cohen-Kettenis.
Published in Pediatrics October 2014, 134 (4) 696-704; DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1542/peds. 2013-2958
“Conclusions: A clinical protocol of a multidisciplinary team with mental health professionals, physicians, and surgeons, including puberty suppression, followed by cross-sex hormones and gender reassignment surgery, provides gender dysphoric youth who seek gender reassignment from early puberty on, the opportunity to develop into well-functioning young adults.”
 

​Your transgender child needs a therapist — And so do you
“The importance of your mental health should not be underestimated”
By Zada Kent.  July 25, 2020

"Ask your kid’s therapist about parent resources. It’s okay to be choosy when finding a doctor because your kid has specific needs that must be addressed. And often these providers can offer resources for parents as well.

    Dr. M’s practice offers group therapy sessions for the kids, as well as a separate group for parents. This has been invaluable for me. There’s a calm relief you experience when you realize you’re not alone in the plethora of feelings that bombard a parent of a transgender child.

    Parenting can be difficult at the best of times. Having a group moderated by a mental health care professional who is familiar with your concerns is pivotal in keeping anxiety, overwhelm, and excessive worry at bay. It’s also helpful to hear how other families deal with specifics surrounding their kids’ health and transitions, as well as navigating the social world we live in. I’ve made many friends because of this group who I can reach out to when I need a little support from someone who understands."

 

*********************