Three trans men have bravely shared their stories as part of a new beyondblue project aimed at inspiring others to do the same.
Three trans men have bravely shared their stories of overcoming depression and anxiety as part of a new beyondblue project aimed at inspiring trans men to take action when they are struggling.
beyondblue CEO Kate Carnell AO said she hopes the film-reviewsed stories, which are available online, will also develop a broader understanding of the challenges trans men face.
“Our research shows trans men have very high rates of psychological distress compared to others in the LGBTI community and broader communities. The Private Lives 2 study from 2012 revealed that in a standard test of psychological distress, trans men scored 60% higher than the national average.
“We also know that while trans men are more likely to seek assistance for depression and anxiety than gay men, they are less likely to find this assistance useful, because of a lack of understanding by health services and discrimination.
“We hope these stories will help build awareness of some of the challenges trans men face and let other trans men who may be going through a difficult time know that there is hope.”
In the Resilience in the face of change stories, trans men Jez, Jacq and Kurt discuss their journeys of self-discovery and the expectations placed on them by society.
They also outline the steps they took towards improving their mental health when they were struggling and the strategies they use to look after their mental health on a day-to-day basis, including maintaining general physical health.
All three men stress the importance of taking action when you feel you may be experiencing difficulties.
“The message in the stories rings clears that no matter what difficulties you may be experiencing, there is always support available that can help you take back control of your life,” said Ms. Carnell.
“beyondblue is grateful to these men for opening up about some of their darkest moments in order to convey this message.”
beyondblue has funded Australia’s first study on the mental health of trans men and women, with full results expected later this year.
The Resilience in the face of change stories can be viewed online here. This project has been developed by beyondblue with funding from the Federal Government as part of the Taking Action to Tackle Suicide Initiative targeting Australian men.
People having a tough time can contact trained mental health counselors at the beyondblue Support Service via phone on 1300 22 4636 or via www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support for online chat or email responses. The Support Service is partly funded by donations from the Movember Foundation.