The Effect of Gender-Affirming Care on Depression in Adolescents

Gender-affirming care in adolescents has been rising in discussion over the past few years as many children take part in care such as utilizing desired pronouns, participating in psychological services, hormone therapy, social affirmation, and surgeries. Adolescence is a critical period for gender identity development, and access to gender-affirming care can positively impact the well-being and mental health of transgender and gender-diverse youth. Less than 25% of transgender and gender-diverse youth feel they can fully express themselves at home or school, and 72% report negative comments about LGBTQ individuals from their family members.¹ This demonstrates the need for interventions that provide support and acceptance. Research shows that adolescents who have access to and take part in gender-affirming care experience lower levels of depression.