Those who do not suffer from gender dysphoria are unlikely to truly understand how gender affirmation surgery can benefit the mental health of transgender people. But Vanessa Bulcão, psychologist and master in clinical and health psychology, explains that gender affirmation interventions, also known as gender reassignment interventions […]
Those who do not suffer from gender dysphoria are unlikely to truly understand how gender affirmation surgery can benefit the mental health of transgender people. But Vanessa Bulcão, psychologist and masters in clinical and health psychology, explains that gender affirmation surgeries, also known as sexual reassignment surgeries, can have a profoundly positive impact on the mental health of transgender people in the long term.
“Gender dysphoria can lead to impairments in social, occupational, or other areas of life. Therefore, studies show that those who have undergone these interventions report significant relief from the symptoms of gender dysphoria. In addition to improvements in self-esteem and satisfaction with life in general, the feeling of adequacy to the gender with which the person identifies tends to increase satisfaction with one’s body image and to reinforce, with an impact, self-acceptance on a psychological level directly on health physical nature of the person”, he underlines Vanessa.
But what is gender dysphoria?
It is a condition recognized by medical and psychological science that occurs when there is a significant disconnect between a person’s gender identity (how they identify) and the sex they were assigned at birth.
Not having access to surgery can cause psychological damage
The specialist highlights that the inability to access surgery can contribute to the development or worsening of disorders such as depression and anxiety. “The feeling of frustration and impotence in the face of the impossibility of carrying out a desired intervention generates an unstable emotional state. It makes it difficult to deal with the situation and increases the risk of mental disorders. Furthermore, this reality can fuel feelings of rejection and exclusion, since the economic, social and structural barriers often limit access to surgical interventions. These feelings reinforce the perception that the needs of transgender people are not appreciated or recognized by society, intensifying their psychological suffering, suicidal ideation can exacerbate the feelings of desperation.”
Psychological support
Pre- and post-operative psychological support plays an essential role in the emotional and mental recovery of people who opt for these surgeries, comments Vanessa. “In the pre-operative period, psychological support prepares the individual to deal with the physical and emotional changes associated with the procedure. It helps to manage expectations and deal with possible anxieties and uncertainties. This support promotes a deeper understanding of motivations and expectations . Ensure that the decision to proceed with surgery is well-informed and emotionally conscious.”
Additionally, therapy provides a safe space to discuss and process social reactions and changes in interpersonal relationships. Which can have a significant impact on self-esteem and overall well-being. “The role of a multidisciplinary team of health professionals, including endocrinologists, psychiatrists and social workers, is also important in providing a comprehensive approach to transgender health.”
However, to achieve this goal, the psychologist must adopt a validation approach. Promote a non-judgmental environment focused on strengthening self-confidence and self-acceptance. “Approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) are also effective in helping people identify and change dysfunctional thoughts. Develop coping strategies to deal with adaptation. Furthermore, it is important to highlight that psychological support should not only be limited to the pre- and post-operative phase, but must be continuous, accompanying the individual in all phases of his/her journey. This support contributes to a healthier emotional recovery and maximizes the psychological and social benefits of the intervention, favoring better recovery, overall well-being and a better quality of life”, concludes Vanessa.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
