Hi, my name is Thea. I'm a pre-transition mtf transgender individual, but I prefer to think of myself simply as a woman despite all the technicalities. I've decided to come here because I've been extremely depressed lately about having to live as a man despite thinking and feeling like a woman. For various reasons, the biggest being finances, I have not been able to really start my transition. I have come out to my friends and immediate family and the responses have been generally positive. My family is having a harder time accepting it and since I'm at home for the summer it has been really rough on me because I have to be someone I'm not both in public and in private. My friends have been much more supportive, but since none of them are transgender they sometimes have a hard time understanding what I'm going through. I'm hoping to make some friends online here that can help to give advice and lend an understanding ear when I'm struggling with transgender issues. Hope to be welcomed and accepted here.

Thea

Hi Thea, welcome to Susan's. I think the same way in regards to just being a woman. A woman is woman be it trans or otherwise. It's hard for families to sometimes let go of that past and being forced to be someone your not around them only makes it harder. What you said about friends, their acceptance and yet being able to understand what we go through is so true. I was reminded of that fact the other day, but truth be told remember only those of us who are transgendered truly understand to the level we do because they have lived through it too. The others can understand, but just on a different level. I hope your finances improve so you can move forward with your transition. I look forward to seeing you around the forums. Good luck and Hugs.
Mariah

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A big warm welcome to Susan's Thea

Really do understand the constraints financially, find myself there right now too..

Its good that you have come out to your family and friends, and, yes it is can be hard  for family to come to grips with the changes of having a brother or a son who is now wanting to be the sister or daughter, it may take a while its quite a bit of adapting. Friends, however, especially if you are in a younger age group tend to be far more accepting, even whilst they may not fully understand. I am sure your family will come around to fully understanding over time and your friends will see the changes in you, both inwardly and outwardly as you relax and become more the real you.

And yes I am sure you'll make heaps of friends here at Susan's

I look forward to seeing you about the forum's, best wishes

L Katy 

Hi Thea 

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

Hugs

V M