Transgender
Schizophrenia is a serious mental health condition that affects how a person thinks, feels, and perceives reality. Individuals with schizophrenia may experience symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, and difficulty distinguishing between what is real and what is not. This can impact daily functioning, relationships, and overall quality of life. While schizophrenia can be challenging, with proper treatment and support, individuals can learn to manage symptoms and lead meaningful, productive lives.
What is Transgender?
Being transgender means that a person’s gender identity—their internal sense of being male, female, both, neither, or somewhere along the gender spectrum—does not align with the sex they were assigned at birth. For example, someone assigned female at birth may identify as male, or someone assigned male may identify as female, or a person may identify outside the traditional binary.
Being transgender is not a mental illness. However, many transgender individuals may experience emotional distress, known as gender dysphoria, when there’s a mismatch between their gender identity and their body or how society perceives them.
Symptoms of Being Transgender
It’s important to clarify: being transgender is an identity, not a disorder. The word “symptoms” here refers to the emotional and psychological challenges that may arise, especially due to gender dysphoria or societal pressures.
Transgender Care – Diagnostic Symptoms
- Negative symptoms
- Strong desire to be treated as another gender
- Distress related to primary/secondary sex characteristics
- Significant emotional distress or impairment in daily life
- Incongruence between experienced gender and assigned sex
Common Experiences of Transgender Individuals
- Desire to live authentically in affirmed gender
- Emotional distress when misgendered or invalidated
- Relief and improved well-being after affirmation
- Higher risk of depression, anxiety, or stress due to stigma/discrimination
- Strong resilience and empowerment when supported in identity
When Diagnosed
Healthcare providers may diagnose gender dysphoria (not “being transgender”) when a person experiences significant distress due to the mismatch between their assigned sex and gender identity. Diagnosis is based on emotional experience, self-reported identity, and the impact on daily life.
Is There a Cure?
There is no “cure” because being transgender is not an illness. Instead, care focuses on affirmation, support, and reducing distress.
Therapy & Support
Gender-affirming therapy to provide a safe space for self-expression.
Coping strategies for managing dysphoria, anxiety, or depression.
Family or couples counseling for improved support systems.
Get In Touch
Dr. Naiga Dohnji (DNP) is a dedicated provider, who embodies the mission and values of being a positive influence in patients’ lives, with a rich tapestry of professional experience.
- (323)694-9243
- info@happymindtelepsych.com
- 13th Street 47 W 13th St, New York,