Understanding Gender Identity Mental Health & Support
Gender dysphoria, also known as gender identity disorder, is when one’s physical sex differs from their gender identity or expression. The use of the word disorder gives this condition a negative connotation that is related to the distress surrounding societal perceptions of gender non-conforming individuals rather than their own perception of their sex and gender. These teens are more at risk to develop mental health issues, like depression, and have a much higher risk for completed suicide.
At Ascend, our clinical framework starts from a place of acceptance, honoring where these individuals are at, and providing supportive education. At a time in their lives when teenagers are discovering themselves, discomfort with societal perceptions around gender can be so intense that it interferes with the normal course of life. Our team has a lot of experience with LGBTQ+ concerns and provide a welcoming atmosphere for anyone entering our mental health program. Teens who are struggling with their gender identity find that our mental health residential facility in California provides a trans youth support program as part of their personalized treatment plan.
Causes Of Gender Identity Issues In Teenagers
In a clinical sense, dysphoria is described as feelings of dissatisfaction, anxiety, and restlessness pertaining to a certain subject. A teen’s sex — male or female — is determined by genetics, but their gender identity is determined by a combination of factors, including their innate gender identity and the gender roles they choose to adopt. Gender is a spectrum, and identities can shift and change over time.
The confusion some teens experience when presented with the foreign emotions associated with figuring out who they are can cause a lot of stress. Add to that the pressure of presenting as their gender identity in social situations, and it’s no surprise that many teens find themselves looking for mental health support. Ascend Healthcare offers the personalized treatment they’re looking for through our gender-affirming trans youth support program in California.
Signs & Symptoms of Gender Identity Issues
You’re watching your teen struggle and you think it may be due to their gender identity. Look for signs and symptoms including:
- Discomfort with their body
- Rejection from peers
- Loneliness
- General distress
- Intense feelings of anxiety
- Poor self-concept
- Suicidal thoughts
Are you seeing more than one warning sign of declining mental health? Enrolling them in a residential facility with a trans youth support program in California surrounds your child with the positive support they need for healthy self-exploration. Through a unique blend of evidence-based and experiential therapy modalities, Ascend can help your teen through this difficult time. We provide them a place to talk about their concerns with a positive peer group and a path to reconcile all of their fears, negative emotions, and concerns.
Trans Youth Support Programs at Ascend
From family therapy and academic help to general mental health support, Ascend addresses the entire life and family system for trans youth. Our experienced team has worked with many teens who have been struggling with similar issues. Trust in our knowledge, specialty training, and compassionate approach to guide your child towards a healthier, happier life.
Reach out to us today at 310.388.3713 to explore gender identity mental health and support.