Laws and policies that restrict gender-affirming healthcare are more than abstract political moves. They can directly affect your life. It can feel like your own identity and overall well-being are under attack. The anger, fear, and stress that follow in the aftermath are real and completely valid.
We may not be able to change these laws overnight, but we can talk about some of the ways that you can protect your mental health, explore your options, and find support in the meantime. Let’s explore ways to cope if your state has taken measures against gender-affirming healthcare.
Acknowledge Your Feelings
First of all, don’t be afraid to sit with your feelings. This can be uncomfortable, but it’s important to acknowledge your feelings—the good, the bad, and the ugly—and allow yourself to feel them. All of your feelings are valid. No matter whether you’re experiencing anger, sadness, shock, disbelief, or numbness, all of your emotions are worth feeling.
Pretending like everything is fine and dandy when that’s far from the truth only adds to the pressure of negative thoughts and feelings. Putting a name to your emotions can help you release some of the weight that comes along with feeling them.
Find Affirming Spaces
If your own state’s policies feel a little hostile, it’s extremely important to put yourself around people who see and respect you. Try to find a small circle of friends where you can be your most authentic self, a local LGBTQIA+ support group, or an online community to help you feel safe. These affirming spaces aren’t just nice to have; they’re essential.
Explore Your Options
Even if your local laws have changed, make sure you know your options. Your healthcare options could mean connecting with a national organization to help you navigate these roadblocks, seeking telehealth services, or traveling to another state for healthcare. Explore groups like Planned Parenthood, Trans Lifeline, or the Trevor Project, which can help you find and learn about the resources that may still be available to you.
Protect Your Mental Health
These restrictions on your healthcare can cause a huge emotional toll. Make sure you’re making your mental health a priority during this time. You may not be able to control the legislation, but you can take the necessary steps to protect your own mental health and overall well-being.
There are many different ways to protect your mental health. You can seek additional support through an affirming healthcare provider or therapist, practice mindfulness, move your body, find ways to be creative, or make time for activities that help you feel grounded.
Get Involved
If you have the energy to do so, try to get involved. Advocacy can be a beautiful and empowering thing. This could mean volunteering at a local organization, calling your legislators, or sharing accurate information to help educate other people in your network.
You’re Not Alone
Keep in mind that you’re not supposed to fight every battle. Make sure you’re taking the time to preserve your energy. You can’t be expected to give to someone else if your cup is completely empty.
It’s also important to remember that you’re not alone. It can be easy to feel isolated when these types of policies make you feel like you don’t belong. That being said, there are entire communities of like-minded individuals and allies. These are the people who are ready to be there for you, to support you, and to stand with you.
No matter what the laws in your state say, your identity and mental health are important and valid. Reach out today to learn more about gender-affirming therapy and ways you can cope during this time.
