Microaggressions on trans refer to intentional or unintentional statements or behaviors that communicate stigmatizing or hostile messages towards the LGBTQ+ community. A study shows that LGBTQ+ individuals are at higher risk of microaggressions compared to heterosexual or cisgender individuals, negatively impacting their mental health. 

Microaggressions on Trans Hurts

On a quick look, microaggressions may appear harmless. Individuals, especially heterosexuals, may think that simple comments on trans and gender-diverse people won’t hurt. But this isn’t the case, and most often, it has a lasting impact on their mental health. In fact, according to this research, people who face microaggressions are at a higher risk of suffering from anxiety, depression, trauma, and high blood pressure.

Racial slurs in the U.S. Air Force Academy preparatory school in Charlottesville, Virginia, is a good example of how microaggressions can impact mental health and health in general. Evidence shows that racism and discrimination impact the health of people of color, with researchers at Columbia University saying that racism can lead to traumatic stress. In turn, this stress can lead to mental issues, including anger, depression, avoidance, low self-esteem, physical reactions, etc.

But this doesn’t just apply to racial discrimination. It also applies to gender discrimination and biases. If a person is discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, it can contribute to poor health – both mentally and physically. The effects of microaggressions are like a bruise that keeps bumping repeatedly—individuals who experience this get hurt over time, whether it was intentional or not.

How Microaggressions on Trans Impact Mental Health

Our mental health can be impacted by numerous internal and external elements, including people’s attitudes towards us. Long-term exposure to gender microaggressions can have a direct and indirect impact on trans mental health.

In one study, African Americans who experienced racial discrimination had less deep sleep, meaning they didn’t achieve optimal levels of rest. Getting enough sleep is crucial for having healthy physiological body functioning, including mental function, hormone system, and immune system.

The same is the case when one experiences gender discrimination. As seen from several studies there’s a connection between perceived discrimination and numerous health and mental issues.

Gender discrimination is a stressor that can negatively impact mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental issues. Other investigations show a connection between microaggressions and suicidal thoughts.

Another common form of microaggressions for LGBTQ+ individuals in healthcare is where people assume that people are either heterosexual or cisgender. Due the higher levels of discrimination and rejection these individuals face, they are more prone to psychological stress, suicidal thoughts, drug and alcohol abuse, and sexually transmitted diseases.

Unfortunately, most of these gender-diverse individuals still face microaggressions from their therapists when seeking mental care support. It is for this and many other reasons that LGBTQ and All come in to help LGBTQ+ individuals have access to mental health care without discrimination. Check our list of reputable mental professionals today and choose a solution that matches your needs for personalized LGBTQ-friendly mental support.

How to Fight Microaggressions on Trans

Raise or Promote Awareness

The first step to fighting microaggression on trans is to raise awareness. However, since microaggression can be intentional or unintentional, many people might not be aware that their actions or speech is affecting others negatively. To avoid this, media publications and outlets should be vocal about gender microaggressions on trans people to help create awareness and peaceful coexistence, regardless of gender or sexual orientation.

Let LGBTQ+ People Lead Discussions on their Issues

It’s good to speak on behalf of LGBTQ+ individuals. However, that shouldn’t take away their right to share their views, especially when discussing matters regarding their wellbeing. Remember, no one is better placed to guide the conversation about LGBTQ+ support than a person who is actually transgender. So, no matter how well you mean, don’t have conversations about LGBTQ+ individuals without allowing them as part of the conversations.

Use Gender-Neutral Pronouns

Don’t use him /her pronouns when referring to people you don’t know their gender or when speaking in public. He/she pronouns have been used for centuries to refer to male and female, respectively. However, having numerous people identify with other genders other than what they were assigned at birth, it makes sense to either learn a person’s pronouns or use gender-neutral pronouns like they/them.

Don’t Tell Someone They Don’t Look Trans

It’s easy to look at a person and assume their gender. While these could have worked many years ago, it is no longer the case. For example, Julia Wright says she identifies as non-binary, but everyone they meet says they’re a woman. There’s no single way a lesbian, gay, queer, or trans should look or express themselves, meaning you can’t tell a person’s gender by appearance.

Don’t Assume Sex is Same as Gender

Sex and gender are two distinct things. Sex refers to biological characteristics like reproductive organs, hormones, chromosomes, etc., that are assigned at birth. On the other hand, gender is a person’s socially accrued characteristics, such as gender identity, behaviors, expressions, roles, etc. People develop gender through socialization and can change throughout a person’s life. So, don’t assume a person’s gender but rather respect the gender they identify with.

LGBTQ and All is Helping End Gender Microaggressions on LGBTQ+

The biggest challenge for gender-diverse individuals is finding LGBTQ+-friendly mental professionals. At LGBTQ and All, we understand this challenge and aim to be a bridge between LGBTQ+ individuals seeking mental support and LGBTQ-friendly mental professionals. We offer resources to help educate people on LGBTQ matters and list reputable mental care practitioners who offer support to gender-diverse people.