Introduction

[ErikRossBassist]

Hello, my name is Erik. I'm 16. I'm new, but I've known I'm trans for about 4 years now. I'm not "completely" out yet. My friends know, my family doesn't. I don't really know what else to put.

[Kendra]

Hi Erik! 

In a short statement you have said a lot.  I wish I had more answers when I was 16 and when I was 12.  I sort of knew but had nowhere to turn in the 1970s.  A few people here did manage to transition at that time which I find amazing. 

As you haven't come out to your family yet, you might want to check out the Coming Out board and see what has worked well (or not) for others.  https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php?board=29.0

The world and how you run your future is yours to own.

[Laurie]

 Hi Erik,

  Welcome to Susan's Place. Usually we would recommend you talk to your doctor and/or a gender therapist but at 16 you probably need to talk to your parents first and that can be a daunting thing to do at any age. If you do see a doctor regularly (or a therapist) already that may be a good place to start or you might talk to a school counselor if you are comfortable with that. Most school staff are familiar with  gender issues now days. But I do highly recommend talking to someone who can help you with these different feelings you are having. You may know already that you are trans but then again you may new help exploring what this means. Take my word for it, it is complicated. I'm 64 and have been dealing with them all my life and I welcomed being able to talk to a therapist. I'm doing okay but I'm going to be talking to mine to discuss some new issues I've developed. Having someone to take to is a big help in deciding how you are going to handle things.
  Well Erik,  welcome to out online home and I hope to see you around more so were can share your progress.

Hugs,
   Laurie

[Jacqueline]

Hi Erik,

Welcome to the site.

I would agree with the other ladies that it is great to know early. I also think a therapist is a good idea. However, as stated, you will probably needed parental consent.

I also wanted to mention there is a category here called Youth Talk that is for people at or under 18 years old. That might help to compare advice and experiences with others your age.

I also want to share some links with you. They are mostly welcome information and the rules that govern the site. If you have not had a chance to look through them, please take a moment:

Things that you should read

Site Terms of Service & Rules to Live By	Standard Terms & Definitions	Post Ranks (including when you can upload an avatar)
Reputation rules	News posting & quoting guidelines	Photo, avatars, & signature images policy

Once again, welcome to Susan's. Look around, ask questions and join in.

With warmth,

Jacqui

[Dan]

Welcome Erik!

Some great advice has already been given you by our sisters on this board, so I'll just back them 

I'm trans from way back just didn't know it until recently  so I'm on my way to making it all official and am powered by T from now on.

See you around the boards.

[V M]

Hi Erik 

Welcome to Susan's Place    Glad to have you here, join on in the fun

Hugs

V M