There is no one way to transition and there are many options for transitioning that are not medical. Not everyone who socially transitions wants to medically transition, and social and medical transition timelines do not always align. Do what works for you! Below you will find information on Social Transition.
Speaking to a Healthcare Provider
It’s okay to have questions around your social transition. Speaking to your Primary Care Provider and/or Mental Health Provider is a good place to start seeking support. You may be seeking support to access gender-specific medical services or information, or mental health support.
Your Primary Care Provider may begin by asking you some general questions related to your social transition goals. It can be helpful to start thinking about some of these before you go in for your appointment. – Remember, it’s okay to not have all the answers!
- What name and pronouns are you currently using (and if these differ across settings, how so?)
- What are your goals for transition?
- How do you want to be perceived in terms of your gender?
- What are your current top priorities?
- What are your future goals?
- Have you taken any steps to change your outward appearance to make it more closely match your identity?
- Do you bind, tuck or use other gender affirming gear?
Your Primary Care Provider will also want to gain an understanding of your support system and may ask the following questions:
- Do you live alone/with others?
- Do you work/go to school?
- Who makes up your support system?
- Do you have a partner/spouse/dependents?
- Have you talked to your support system about your transition?
- How have they responded?
- If you have not disclosed, what is your plan to ensure you are supported?
Remember also that administration at your clinic will be utilizing your information to contact you, leave voicemails, send you mail, and send out referrals about you to other clinicians. You can talk to your provider about ways to do this respectfully and safely for your current situation.
Guardians of Trans and Gender Diverse Youth
As a parent/guardian, it is important to support your child’s social transition as it decreases anxiety, depression and suicidal ideation.
If you are looking for support or information regarding your child’s gender health, or if you would like to connect to a network of parents, visit Gender Creative Kids Canada or your local PFLAG chapter. Visit Family Support Resources for more information and speak to your child’s Primary Care Provider if you have questions.
