We are living in the 21st century. Pride is more prominent than ever. Underrepresented groups are finally getting their voices heard across the country.
While there’s no denying we’ve made huge strides for the LGBTQIA+ community in recent years, we also can’t deny that we have a long way to go.
As a whole, we still live in a heteronormative and cis-normative society. So many people still don’t understand what it means to be a transgender person. Instead, they believe stereotypes and labels that aren’t based in reality.
That leaves many in the transgender community feeling anxious, depressed, lonely, or even scared.
So, what can you do? How can you cope with our heteronormative society as a transgender person?
Practice Self-Care
Multiple studies have shown that gender non-conforming transgender people face greater discrimination than other groups. That can lead to a variety of mental health issues. You might feel anxious, depressed, or even start to question your worth if you’re constantly getting berated by society.
One of the best ways to fight back against that kind of daily discrimination is to take care of yourself. Self-care isn’t selfish. It’s necessary if you want to stand firm in who you are and feel confident and comfortable in your own skin.
Self-care looks different for everyone. Things like exercise, cooking a healthy meal, socializing with friends, or even journaling are all great ways to take care of yourself. Sometimes, a ten-minute escape to focus on your well-being can put you in a better state of mind to deal with society.
Find Your Tribe
It’s important to remember that you’re never alone.
Society might take issue with the transgender community, but the key word is community. Transgender individuals are speaking out more frequently, and fear is being stamped out with each person who steps forward.
Don’t hesitate to find friends and your support system within the LGBTQIA+ community. You might be surprised to find that your local community already has groups you can join. If that isn’t the case, don’t hesitate to look online.
Even if you can only find a digital community, it can serve as a safe space for you to be yourself, ask questions, and learn how other people are coping. Small reminders that you’re not the only one struggling can make a big difference in how you feel.
Seek Out Allies
It’s just as important to find support from people outside of the LGBTQIA+ community. Though society, in general, might still rely on heteronormative ideas, times are changing. Ideas are changing. There are more transgender allies than ever, and there are likely some in your own backyard.
Allies can help you feel safe in a society that otherwise can feel incredibly scary and overwhelming. They also often have resources you can use to find even healthier ways to cope.
Don’t Neglect Your Mental Health
Even if you have a strong support system and you’re doing your best to care for yourself, it’s not uncommon for those in the transgender community to struggle with mental health issues. That’s likely to continue as long as society clings to heteronormative ideas.
No one wants to be different to the point of feeling like an “outsider.” No matter how strong you are and no matter how great your friends and family are, that’s still a hard thing to deal with.
If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, or stress, don’t feel like you have to carry that weight on your own. Working with a mental health professional can provide a safe space for you to open up about anything you’re struggling with or feeling. A therapist can help you work through healthy coping mechanisms, so Contact Us to get more information and begin to create a safe place for yourself.