As a transgender man living in India, I have encountered many challenges that have negatively impacted my well-being and mental health. Gender diversity has not been historically accepted and understood in Indian society, and this makes it extremely hard for people like me to go about their daily lives.
One of the biggest obstacles I face is gender dysphoria. It is a condition that causes discomfort and distress when someone's gender identity does not match the gender they were assigned at birth. According to the National Center for Transgender Equality, gender dysphoria affects 64% of transgender individuals and can lead to anxiety and depression.
Many transgender people, myself included, also struggle with body dysmorphia. This is a condition where a person feels intense dissatisfaction with their physical appearance. In India, accessing affirmative healthcare, including hormone therapy and surgeries that can alleviate these symptoms, can be incredibly challenging. Unfortunately, our health insurance does not cover any of our essential requirements. Almost always, the community is forced to fundraise on social media and depend on crowdfunding for under necessary surgeries required to feel safe in our correct bodies. Even when we face health concerns or require hospitalization, we often experience disrespect from medical staff who are unaware of how to treat us fairly and equally.
The lack of access to healthcare and support has resulted in an increase in mental health issues amongst the transgender community in India. The Indian Journal of Psychiatry, among other numerous studies around the world, found that transgender individuals have higher rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation than the general population.
Stigma and discrimination have also affected my mental health and that of many other transgender individuals. Many of us have experienced violence and rejection from friends and family due to our gender identity. Sadly, verbal harassment is all too common, and physical attacks are not uncommon. These experiences can leave us feeling lonely and isolated and can take a toll on our self-esteem and self-worth.
In addition to personal challenges, transgender individuals also face significant barriers in the workplace. It can be difficult for us to find employment as we often face discrimination, particularly in smaller companies. While big corporations are making strides in creating inclusive and diverse environments, they still have a long way to go, they still need to make efforts to regularly educate their staff on the LGBTQIA+ community, and ensure that NO ONE is discriminated against because of their gender; the discrimination we face after being hired can still be challenging. Trans individuals who are forced into sex work or begging due to a lack of employment opportunities are also at higher risk of experiencing violence.
We as a society must do better in understanding and accepting gender diversity. This includes
creating an environment where transgender individuals have full access to healthcare and support and a safe and accepting space for the community.
Only then can we hope to improve the mental health and well-being of transgender individuals in India.
We need to work towards creating a society that is inclusive and diverse, where individuals are accepted and celebrated for who they are, regardless of their gender identity. It is time to create a world where everyone can live their lives freely, happily, and without fear of discrimination.
Yohann is a 27-year-old transman who thrives in the life sciences field. Alongside his professional pursuits, he finds solace and inspiration in the realms of art, poetry, and sports. Yohann embraces his identity as a neurodivergent individual and actively seeks mental health services to manage the challenges he faces. Navigating the intricacies of healthcare becomes even more arduous due to these circumstances, as his mental health influences his physical well-being. Recognizing the vital connection between his mental and physical health, Yohann remains resilient in his pursuit of accessible healthcare and strives to overcome the obstacles that come his way.
This story has been described by Yohann, written by Vrushali Kadam.
Comentarios