International Transgender Awareness Week
It's International Transgender Awareness Week (13th to 19th November) and a key time to raise visibility and understanding around the challenges faced by the transgender community.
In terms of wellbeing, we know the transgender community encounters disproportionate rates of mental health challenges due to societal discrimination, lack of understanding, and systemic barriers.
From higher risks of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation, to facing rejection from family, friends, and society, the mental health toll on transgender individuals is profound.
According to studies, a significant number of transgender individuals experience mental health issues, with LGBTQIA+ people 1½ times more likely to develop depression and anxiety disorder (Mental Health UK).
To foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for the transgender community, education and understanding is crucial. Individuals and organisations alike can contribute by educating themselves.
Only then can we begin to try and dismantle misconceptions, discrimination, and stigma surrounding transgender identities and instead promote acceptance, inclusivity, and understanding.
Here is Reuben's story, talking about Acceptance.
Hi, my name is Reuben, and I am a gay transman and came out in 2015.
My pronouns are he/him and I'm part of the Community team here at Wellbeing Suffolk.
Working for such an inclusive organisation is fantastic, I feel safe and supported in my role as an Engagement Worker. I love being out in the community meeting people from all walks of life. It's very humbling to hear people's stories along the way too. We all have struggles, so just taking the time to listen to someone and them knowing they're not alone can mean the world to some people.
'Acceptance' by Reuben Wilcox
Why have you created this photo?
I took this photo because it was the first Christmas card I received from my mum after I came out. The fact it says son and not daughter meant an incredible amount to me. I've always known who I was, but it took me until I was almost 30 to be able to accept that and talk to those around me about it. I was expecting to have to move far away and start again, but my family weren't really surprised when I told them I was transgender and adjusted to my new name and pronouns practically overnight. If anything, it was fairly anticlimactic, and I wish I'd done it years ago!
Why is it significant to you?
For obvious reasons. But also because it was the first Christmas after my dad died too. So it was a very bittersweet moment. He died just after I came out, and said to me to do whatever I needed to be happy. I know he loved me unconditionally and I only wish I still had his guidance and support. I also wish he'd taught me how to shave and trim my beard, as I haven't got a clue what I'm doing and look shaggier by the day!
How does it make you feel?
Happy that my mum (and dad) accepted me for who I am. I feel incredibly privileged to have their support and don't take that feeling for granted. I know so many people who don't have their family's support or acceptance.
Why do you want to share it?
To show those who haven't come out, but might want to, that there is hope. Even if their families don't understand, accept or support you, there are others who love you for who you are.
This is my story:
By sharing personal stories, we can help educate, increase visibility, and build trans awareness.
If every story creates more understanding and awareness, we can help to build a society that's a safer and more inclusive place, where everyone can live authentically.
A bit about Wellbeing Norfolk
We are here to provide mental health support to anyone in Norfolk aged 16 or over.
We offer a safe space, without judgement, to receive support tailored to your own experiences.
You don't need a diagnosis or to see your GP to reach out for our support. You can simply self-refer by either calling 0300 123 1503 (Monday to Friday 8am - 6pm), or completing the form on our website.
Our Wellbeing online workshops are also a great low commitment way to get mental health support which can help you recognise and develop strategies to cope with the stresses and strains you might be experiencing.
All our workshops are free to join, and don't worry - you won't be seen by our facilitators or other participants, and you can use the private chat function to ask any questions.
For free the Wellbeing service also offers:
Further reading
To learn more and to help build understanding around trans people and the issues they face, Stonewall have developed an excellent Q&A called The truth about trans to answer some of the common questions about trans people, and to tackle some of those myths and misconceptions you might have seen.
The Genderbread Person is an infographic created and illustrated by Sam Killerman that's an easy-to-understand visual explanation that breaks down gender identity, gender expression, biological sex and sexual orientation.
LGBTQIA+ community resources and support
Being part of a bigger community can give people a sense of value and belonging, and knowing that you are surrounded by people who have had similar experiences and who share like-minded views can give a sense of empowerment. TransUnite have a helpful tool on their website, where using your location you can find local Transgender support groups near you.
Queer Norfolk here you can find an overview of support groups running in Norfolk.
Norfolk LGBT+Project provides support, and information to any member of the LGBT+ community in Norfolk and Waveney.
Outreach Youth support for LBGTQ+ people under 25 and their families across Norfolk.
LGBTQ+Friends in Norfolk and Suffolk a Facebook group for use as an online forum.
BLAH LGBTQ+ Youth free one to one support to young people as well as those questioning their sexuality or gender identity aged 25 and under living in Norfolk and Waveney
Switchboard LGBT helpline provide an information, support and referral service for LGBT people (and family and friends), and anyone considering issues around their sexuality and/or gender identity. They run a telephone service, live chat, and email.
Stonewall help and advice for LGBT people and their allies.
Mermaids offer help and support for transgender young people and their families.
