Gender-Affirming Care for Youth

Gender-affirming care isn’t just important—it can be life-saving. For transgender and gender-diverse youth, support from family, teachers, and trusted adults makes a massive difference in their mental health and overall well-being.

Why Family Support Matters

When young people receive support for their gender identity, they are more likely to feel safe, connected, and mentally healthy. Without this support, the risks are much higher.

• Trans youth face increased risk of depression, anxiety, homelessness, and substance use.

• Those who are rejected by family are at the highest risk of suicide.

• Trying to change a child’s gender identity isn’t just unhelpful—it’s harmful. It can cause permanent damage to a young person’s mental health

What the Research Says

At least a dozen studies, involving more than 30,000 gender-diverse youth, show that gender-affirming care improves mental health. Here's what the research highlights:

• More access to gender-affirming care = better mental health outcomes

• Lack of access is linked to higher risks of suicidality, depression, and self-harm

• Gender-affirming care is evidence-based and medically necessary

What You Can Do

If you're a parent, teacher, coach, or friend—your support matters. Listening, using correct pronouns, and affirming someone’s identity can make a powerful difference in their life.

No one should have to face who they are alone. With love, understanding, and the right care, we can help every young person feel seen, safe, and supported.