Gender diverse youth face unique challenges in navigating their identities in the midst of peers, families, and current political climates. These conditions have the power to shape the way gender diverse youth interact and present themselves to the world. Access to supportive environments while undergoing gender affirmation is crucial to how these youth maneuver both expected and unexpected physical and social changes that they may encounter. Data consistently shows positive, life-saving benefits of gender affirming care. For instance, a recent study found that treatments including puberty blockers and gender affirming hormones led to gender diverse youth having 60% lower chances of experiencing moderate to severe depressive symptoms and 73% lower odds of suicidality.
Gender affirming care saves lives, so it is essential to listen to the experiences and needs of gender diverse youth to best understand how to support their mental, emotional, and physical needs during this important part of their lives. In this OutTalk, we will hear from gender diverse youth themselves about how they navigate expected and unexpected parts of physical and social transitions.
Panelists include:
- Brady Barre, BSW – Development and Communications Coordinator, Seacoast Outright
- Phoenix Laxton – Program Specialist, Hudson Valley LGBTQ Community Center
- Phoenix LeMount – Sexual Health and Wellness Specialist, OutMemphis
- John Sovec, LMFT (he/him) – OutTalk Moderator & Host, Therapist – Coach – Speaker – Author of “Out: A Parent’s Guide to Supporting Your LGBTQIA+ Kid Through Coming Out and Beyond
Learning Objectives:
- Understanding Gender Affirming Care: Explore the positive physical and mental health impacts of gender-affirming care and why it is essential for youth navigating these transitions.
- Recognizing Social Dynamics: Gain insights into the social challenges gender diverse youth encounter within their communities and peer groups, particularly within today’s political climate.
- Providing Supportive Care: Learn strategies for creating affirming, supportive environments for gender diverse youth and fostering an atmosphere where they feel seen and valued.
- Fostering Positive Mental Health: Understand the link between affirming care and positive mental health outcomes for youth, including decreased rates of depression and suicidality.
- Listening to Youth Voices: Hear firsthand from gender diverse youth about their experiences and challenges, providing a deeper understanding of how to support their physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
Tune in to new OutTalk Webinar Series episodes on the third Thursday of each month at 6 PM ET (3 PM PT).