Born different but equal.

What is it?

Gender issues refer to psychological, social, or emotional challenges related to one's gender identity, gender expression, or societal gender roles. These may include gender dysphoria (distress due to mismatch between one's assigned gender at birth and experienced gender), confusion during gender exploration, or facing stigma, discrimination, or lack of acceptance due to non-conforming gender identity.

Prevalence and statistics

• About 0.6–1.0% of adults identify as transgender or gender-diverse globally.

• Over 50% of gender-diverse individuals report experiencing depression or anxiety.

• Around 40% of transgender individuals have attempted suicide at some point.

• Early support and affirmation significantly reduce psychological distress in gender-diverse youth.

• Gender-based discrimination remains a widespread issue in healthcare, education, and employment.

How to identify?

Emotional signs –

• Persistent discomfort or distress about assigned gender

• Feelings of isolation, rejection, or internal conflict

• Intense desire to be recognized and accepted as one’s experienced gender

Physical signs –

• Strong preference for clothing, hairstyles, or body features of another gender

• Efforts to alter physical appearance to align with gender identity

• Body-related anxiety or avoidance of mirrors, touch, or public spaces

Behavioural signs –

• Social withdrawal due to fear of judgment or non-acceptance

• Seeking out gender-affirming communities or resources

• Conflict with family, peers, or authority figures over gender expression

Cognitive signs –

• Confusion or questioning about gender identity over time

• Preoccupation with gender roles, identity, or societal expectations

• Suicidal ideation or self-harm due to gender-related distress (in severe cases)

Common Gender-Related Terms & Experiences:

• Gender Dysphoria – Psychological distress from a mismatch between assigned and experienced gender

• Transgender – A person whose gender identity differs from their assigned sex at birth

• Non-binary / Genderqueer – Do not identify with the male/female binary. May identify as both, none or fluctuating between the two genders.

• Gender Fluid – Experiencing a flexible gender identity over time

  
  

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