Hello I am a new Transsexual to the site and I live in Brighton in the UK. I am a transitioning TS and I attend a Gender Identity Clinic in London. My Psychologist has recommended that I go to a Support Group for Gender Dysphoric people. I haven't gone to the Group as yet as I am uncomfortable with Group situations and I currently like to go out on my own. I hate to say it but I am worried about meeting others in the same situation. Are Trans Support Groups a Good idea and Should I go to one?
Welcome to Susan's Place. Initially it may be a bit difficult in a group environment but it's really a great experience to be able to discuss issues with people like yourself. I attended a group meeting when I was transitioning and after the meeting was over and the building was closed, we would continue our discussion in the parking lot till well after midnight. We would talk about anything including our life and work. I think you should commit to 3 or 4 meetings and see how you like it. You may meet some new friends and you will have additional support with your transition from the other members.
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It depends. If you feel you need to be around trans people to feel more accepted or 'normal' than you are in your daily life or the group is having a session about a particular subject you're interested in; groups are a good idea. But I find I don't want to be constantly reminded of being trans and need to have something more in common with someone that just one particular medical condition. Plus many groups are quite large meaning the people attending already have established friend groups meaning it's more difficult to go up and make connections.
Although some lgbt groups have mentor/mentee and counselling programs which you may benefit from more. Or you could find a trans group on fb and set up a small support meeting.
I find a support group to be valuable. Being isolated in a small rural community, it is good to get together with other trans folks with whom I can discuss issues around transitioning. I have gotten recommendations for therapists, advice on presentation, and a makeup lesson from the group, as well as having sympathetic ears to vent about issues and problems.
I have been going to group for 3.5 years. I was not permitted for 6 months ( I was too fragile) then when I was encouraged to go I was reluctant to go for 4 or 5 months.
I really enjoy group. I get a lot of information about activities in the community, where to shop and what is happening. Also, I have meet some pretty nice people that I am friends with.
I plucked up the courage and went to the Clair Project Support Group in Brighton in the UK on Tuesday afternoon. I really enjoyed Going and meeting all T Girls in different stages of Transition. I found out I had a lot in common with the other Girls there. It was useful for the Support and information that I received from the others there. After the meeting we all went to the Marlborough Pub a Trans friendly pub in Brighton.I am really Glad I went so thank you to the others on this site who posted the positive information to Go. I am going to go again next Tuesday afternoon.
I loooove my group. I go to AA as well and it is so awesome to have people to talk to that feel and think the way I do. Whether it is talking about looking in the mirror and not liking what I see to advice on clothes and makeup or just listening when someone needs to vent or cry. We have a blast. I will say though that I have found a couple of folks stuck in pity party mode or angry at the world. Just stick with the winners. I get a lot of encouragement from the other longer lived ladies, I'm 55, as well as inspiration from the younger ones. We are all in the same boat, so I've never been judged or mocked. Every once in a while someone will pull me aside and give me advice on how I can wear or use something better, but it's out of love, and a girlfriend will always do that for ya. Good luck and enjoy the ride.