No person should be denied medically-necessary care simply for who they are. No human being should ever have to feel like they are being driven crazy or bullied into not being allowed to express who they are, and that includes you, too.
Please see Trans Unity Coalition’s Resource Map for information on medical and therapeutic services available near you.
Our team has compiled facts and information regarding both medical and mental health needs for the transgender community.
What is gender-affirming care?
Gender-affirming care includes all forms of care, including medical, emotional, psychological, and social, to accept and affirm the gender of a person. At its simplest, it includes referring to someone by their correct pronouns and preferred name. Many times, it can also include medical intervention such as reversible blockers, hormonal treatment, and/or surgical means.
There is no one-size-fits-all to gender-affirming care. Friends and family should carefully and patiently listen to the needs of a person coming out to them, ask what that person would like, and move forward on the terms and pace of the individual in need.
Am I too young or old to come out?
No age is ever too early or too late to be who you are, and there will always be someone out there who sees and supports you for who you are.
Trans and other gender-expansive youth are seeing a demographic pop in representation, largely due to growing up at a time when the queer rights movement in the U.S. has led to various legal victories, progressive cultural support, and an increase in widespread education.
A common misconception is that transgender youth do not exist: this is false. The idea is often perpetuated in discriminatory environments that encourage conversion therapy or bullying of vulnerable people. Trans kids exist all over America and often grow up to be fearless, powerful, and empathetic individuals who unfortunately understand the struggles of others.
Please see our resources for trans youth for more information.
Trans elders, or those who discover who they are or transition relatively later in life, also face unique struggles such as coming out during an existing marriage or when children are involved. Challenges at this stage of life can include coming out to a prejudiced partner, custody battles, workplace discrimination, or feeling disconnected to younger queer safe spaces.
No matter your age, you are valid as the person you know you are. You are not alone, and millions of other people understand your experience.
Which pronouns are right for me?
The pronouns which feel most congruent for who you are depend on the person you see yourself as. Nobody else should tell you which to use.
A good test of pronouns is to practice how they sound to you in the mirror. Try out different pronouns and get an idea which ones feel happiest or most accurate to yourself. You don’t have to feel committed to any combination of pronouns, as self-exploration is always a continual process.
Note: Our volunteer team at Trans Unity Coalition consists of people like you. We sometimes make mistakes. Information presented here is not considered medical or psychiatric advice nor are we speaking as your healthcare provider. Trans Unity Coalition makes no guarantee that information presented is accurate or up to date.