Transgender and studying abroad

[Hannah Samira]

Hey girls, I just wanted to ask for some advice on seeking therapy.

I currently live in the UK and am finishing my second year of my four year uni course. I came out to my girlfriend a couple of days ago and her and I both agreed I need to see a professional to find out who I really am. We also agreed that we would remain together, but if I decide I need to transition we'll just stay friends - not ideal but I understand.

My issue is that next year I'll be studying in Germany.

So do you think I should try and find someone before I go or should I wait until I come back and am in my final year at uni. I really want to get help soon because I don't want to feel like I'm stringing my girlfriend along.

Any advice is appreciated, thank you!! x

[Ms Grace]

It depends on how keen you are to transition - if you are then I suggest you go for it now. The waiting list in the UK is supposedly very long anyway.

[AnonyMs]

From what I've read it takes a long time to get on HRT in Germany. Probably best to get started before you get there if you can. Or come to Sydney, its dead easy here. Nice weather too.

[Hannah Samira]

It depends on how keen you are to transition - if you are then I suggest you go for it now. The waiting list in the UK is supposedly very long anyway.

Yeah I heard it's like 6 months, so considering I'll be gone for about 10 months it makes it difficult to gauge when the best time to start it would be!! I'm desperate to get some clarity, for both our sakes, but if I have to turn down appointments because I'm not in the right country it's going to put me at the back of the queue again :/ x

From what I've read it takes a long time to get on HRT in Germany. Probably best to get started before you get there if you can. Or come to Sydney, its dead easy here. Nice weather too.

Well I'm only gonna be there for a year so I don't think actually starting get there would be a good idea, I just want to get help confirming if I want to transition or not!!
I'd love to be able to just get up and leave for Australia, wish it was that simple haha x

[Newfie]

It sounds like you'll be leaving for Germany very soon. If you can get an appointment relatively soon, you could always start in the UK. I wouldn't suggest it if your first appointment is only a few weeks from your departure date, though, as I don't think you'll be able to accomplish much.

If you'll be in Germany for a year, why not start then? Even if you're not interested in starting HRT immediately or at all, talking with a professional can help. You'll already have made progress by the time you go home. And regardless, you might want to consider scheduling your appointment in the UK while you're still in Germany just to make sure there's not a big time-lapse between visits.

Wishing you the best!