So I'm 15 (almost 16) and I have been questioning my gender on and off for at least more than a year now and I want professional help. I want to tell my parents my feelings and I believe that they will accept it but then I keep getting that feeling that's saying what if it goes away? Then my parents will never look at me the same way and it would be awkward between us. That's not the worst part however, there's also the problem of me having a younger brother who is 4 and idolizes me but I don't know if I were to transition if that would do anything to him psychologically. Now most of the questions I have can be sorted out with a gender therapist but I have a few other thoughts and questions. If I were to transition MTF then I would become an outcast in my grade seeing as most people (that I know) are homophobic. Would online school look bad to colleges? I honestly don't think I could handle the journey. For me, I want to be able to transition in the shadows so to speak until I am "passable" but that might be the wrong thing to do. I'm not even sure if I am trans but I know that gender therapist would be great to help me sort it out. Any help? Thanks!
Quote from: Britt116 on October 20, 2016, 03:48:25 PM
So I'm 15 (almost 16) and I have been questioning my gender on and off for at least more than a year now and I want professional help. I want to tell my parents my feelings and I believe that they will accept it but then I keep getting that feeling that's saying what if it goes away? Then my parents will never look at me the same way and it would be awkward between us. That's not the worst part however, there's also the problem of me having a younger brother who is 4 and idolizes me but I don't know if I were to transition if that would do anything to him psychologically. Now most of the questions I have can be sorted out with a gender therapist but I have a few other thoughts and questions. If I were to transition MTF then I would become an outcast in my grade seeing as most people (that I know) are homophobic. Would online school look bad to colleges? I honestly don't think I could handle the journey. For me, I want to be able to transition in the shadows so to speak until I am "passable" but that might be the wrong thing to do. I'm not even sure if I am trans but I know that gender therapist would be great to help me sort it out. Any help? Thanks!
These early days of uncertainty can be really scary. I know they were for me...I think you are being very sensible in your approach to this and maybe it is worthwhile sitting down, having a conversation with your parents. Do you think you could explain how you feel to them and at the same time, ensure that they know, you are scared, confused and just want some help. Speaking to a professional will help not only you, but your parents, get the information they require, to make a decision that will help you. If you are or are not trans, you are still as welcome here at Susan's as anyone. Figuring the trans* part out can take some time. You don't need to put a label on yourself...if you are trans...it is not the end of the world by any stretch of the imagination. You may lose some friends but then you will probably gain a few as well.
Yes being Trans* can be challenging but the rewards can be incredible. Take your time find a good therapist and work it through...I hope you get a great result
Hugs
Liz