How do I explain my dysphoria to my dad?

[Cody Jensen]

I don't plan on coming out any time soon. One of the things me and my dad do to spend time together (I live with him but we don't talk much) is go swimming. I enjoy it very much however my dysphoria has gotten worse lately and every time we go swimming I have a meltdown in the changeroom and wonder how long it will be before I can wear a guy's swimsuit. I am terrified of coming out to ANYONE! Sometimes I just wish it would all go away. I am trying to find the courage to go to therapy but I am worried I will get judged. Taking showers and going swimming has been difficult for me lately. Since me and my dad go often, I was wondering if there was a way I could explain to him without coming out? And just finding the courage to talk to someone about this in general?

[Sharky]

If you want to wear a mens swim suit, then do it. When I'm at the beach I see people of all body types in swim shorts. Why not skip the changing room, wear what ever you're going to swim in there, and shower when you get home?

[ilanthefirst]

I agree that you don't necessarily have to come out or explain dysphoria to get around the problem.  Lots of women wear swim shorts over their bathing suits if they're self-conscious about their hips, thighs, or bikini area, so you could use that as an excuse if you use a pair of fairly neutral athletic shorts.  In a way, that's dysphoria, too, y'know?  I think it's much harder to use that excuse when it comes to wearing anything other than a women's swimsuit on top. . .

[Darrin Scott]

I never go swimming without my swimming trunks and I still consider myself female at this point. I feel naked without my trunks. Because I have large breasts (and hate them) I wear a T-shirt too when I swim. I'm sure if you do that it'll cut down on your dysphoria a little bit.