How to cope with gender dysphoria

Gender dysphoria is the term used to describe when your physical body doesn't align with your gender or sexual orientation. It can present a challenging internal conflict and have a significant impact on mental health. It can hinder your sense of self-worth, how (or if) you can reach a place of contentment, and your ability to trust or love. Here are some ways that might help you to manage and cope with gender dysphoria.

• Use what you have to conceal certain parts of your body that you are uncomfortable with

• Buy or find gender-affirming clothing and makeup, get a haircut or a wig - some people find that creating an appearance that's more aligned with how they feel can be helpful

• Use affirmations to reaffirm your gender - this can help you remember that being true to who you are is the most important thing you can do for yourself

• Spend time with people who support you and your gender identity - if you find that certain people in your life tend to have very negative reactions, try to limit your time with them. Surround yourself with people who make efforts to validate and accept you.

• Go to therapy or find a support group - these can teach you how to best manage your gender dysphoria and help you to find others who might be experiencing dysphoria as well

Understand that gender dysphoria can be lessened when you seek out supportive environments. The more you know about treatment options available to reduce the conflict between your assigned gender role at birth and your inner gender identity, the healthier and happier you will feel.

If you don't address your gender dysphoria, you may experience mental and emotional distress as well as other mental health conditions.