Gender Dysphoria

Happy Pride! Let’s talk about gender dysphoria. It can be really hard to be in a body in general, but especially when you are experiencing gender dysphoria. In the words of the band AJJ, “I’m so sorry that you have to have a body” (Body Terror Song on the album Good Luck Everybody). There are so many ways that Queer bodies can be radical and beautiful and there are also ways that it can feel so hard to live in one.

In March, Cairo Levias (they/them) posted an article on Plume titled “7 tips to help you deal with gender dysphoria (that have nothing to do with hormones)” that I definitely encourage you to read. They suggest journalling, accessing creativity and movement, accessing support from trusted others, and much more! I wanted to add, in those moments trying to find somewhere in your body that feels calm or neutral and somewhere on your body that you feel positive or neutral about (hair, eyes, etc.). That may be too big of an ask, so you can also look to finding ways that you have created relationships you feel proud of or activities you enjoy. Know that this feeling will pass, no matter how extreme it is in the moment, there is another side.

On the other side of this, when you’re not feeling dysphoric, I want to invite you to pay attention to those moments where you feel gender euphoria or at the very least where you feel comfortable with yourself and/or in your body. And really savor in those moments. Because we don’t just want to cope through the hard times, we want to be able to savor the good. Maybe that’s really hard right now, so it can be as little as I like the comfort of my bed.

If you need more support during times of gender dysphoria, you can call the Trans Lifeline at (877) 565-8860 or The Trevor Project at (866) 488-7386 for ages 13-24.

As always, take what is helpful and leave the rest. I hope you have the week you need.