Dear Miss Laura,

I am a Transsexual girl. I've known I was a girl since my first memories. Lately I can think of nothing else but being a woman.

I have done research on the Internet and have found there is a solution in the form of (GRS) Gender reassignment surgery.

I am not very passable and the few times I've been out dressed as myself have been met with taunts. One person even threw things at me.

I have told my family and some of my friends but they are not supportive at all. They seem more concerned that I am turning Gay, which I'm not. They have no idea of the pain I'm going through.

I have met with one Psychologist who admits very little knowledge about Transsexuals.

My apperance in the mirror distresses me. I fear that I will never be able to be a woman. The expense is too much for me. I have been distressed most of my life and have attempted suicide several times

Now I think of suicide as the only possible solution. I don't think I'll ever just be myself.

Is there any hope for me?

Depressed Woman

Dear Depressed Woman,

Yes there is a great deal of hope for you. Your first step is to get help from a gender therapist. . Seeing a specialist is imperative. Bear in mind that your depression needs to be dealt with first. Medication may help and will be precribed as necessary.

The suicide rate for pre-op Transsexuals is the highest of any group. Estimates are as high as 50%. In many cases the problem that leads to to suicide is not the Gender Dysphoria itself. Rather it is the conflict of non-supportive family and friends. Discrimination and taunts from the general public don't help matters either.

If you can't find support from friends and family  Try the Live chats and Forums in our community. Support is available to you. Your sure to find a sypathtic ear. You'll find that you are not alone.

Bear in mind that there are many who can't afford surgery. Many find relief in living the role by cross-living. Your Gender therapist can help you with this.

If you find you need to talk to someone in a hurry try these LGBT support hot lines: GLBT Counseling and The Trevor Project  . In addition you can try Suicide hot lines around the world. 

Please don't give up Depressed. There is help available to you if you seeks it.

Laura