Introduction to Gender Dysphoria
Gender Dysphoria is NOT a mental illness, it is a term that describes an uneasy feeling that a person has when their biological sex assigned at birth does not align with their gender identity.
To understand Gender Dysphoria, it’s important to know what ‘gender’ and ‘gender identity’ means.
Defining Gender Identity
Gender is a spectrum and everyone possesses a blend of traits that are generally deemed as ‘masculine’ or ‘feminine’. No one is purely one, they include a combination or a mix of different qualities that lie somewhere on the spectrum.
Gender identity is your internal sense of gender, which can be man, woman, neither, or somewhere in between. Some examples include:
Cisgender: Someone whose internal gender aligns with their biological sex
Transgender: Someone whose gender identity differs from their biological sex
Agender: Someone who doesn’t identify as any gender
Gender-fluid: Someone whose gender changes over time
What Is Gender Dysphoria?
Most people identify as ‘Male’ or ‘Female’ but some people feel their gender is different from their biological sex assigned at birth. When this feeling becomes a cause of distress for a person, it is called ‘Gender Dysphoria’.
Causes of Gender Dysphoria
The causes of Gender Dysphoria are unknown, however, research indicates that there may be some correlation between Gender Dysphoria and exposure to certain chemicals during the prenatal stage. Studies have also found an increased prevalence of Gender Dysphoria among twins, which may indicate a genetic link.
Signs and Symptoms of Gender Dysphoria
Emotional Indicators
- Persistent distress because of the biologically assigned gender
- Anxiety and Depression due to societal rejection
- Low self-esteem
- Not feeling confident or proud of one’s body
- Happiness when recognised as one’s preferred gender
Behavioural Indicators
- Avoiding activities, tasks or roles that are typically gender specific
- Dressing and grooming in ways that align with one’s gender identity
- Social withdrawal
- Avoiding intimacy
- Self-harm
Physical Indicators
- Strong desire to change body characteristics. E.g sex change
- Discomfort with one’s body, especially during puberty
- Problems sleeping
- Appetite changes
- Self-harm injuries
Challenges and Considerations
Mental Health Implications
People suffering from untreated Gender Dysphoria are more susceptible to Anxiety, Depression, and suicidal ideation. This is due to the distress caused by a mismatch in their biological sex and gender identity.
The feeling of persistently being misunderstood, invalidated, or unaccepted can make them feel isolated or alienated and further exacerbate their mental health struggles.
Social Acceptance and Support
People with Gender Dysphoria find it difficult to feel accepted in society. It is a real challenge that is faced by most and this invalidation from family, friends, and society in general can make them feel isolated and lonely, causing other mental health issues.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
Since Gender Dysphoria as a concept is only now being acknowledged and accepted in society, there aren’t many laws surrounding it. Because of this, it may be difficult to access certain public resources, areas or places that might be gendered. E.g. gendered washrooms.
Participation in activities that are gendered, such as gendered sports, may involve additional challenges.
Cost of Gender Dysmorphia treatment at BetterPlace
The cost of treatment depends on your personalised care plan, which may include therapy sessions, medication, or other interventions.
At BetterPlace, we provide competitive consultation charges, priced at INR 2,000. Your initial 90-minute appointment involves a comprehensive session with our mental health experts, focusing on understanding your experiences, goals, and needs. From there, we design a tailored treatment plan that fits your unique journey, ensuring affordability through flexible payment options and insurance support.
Our Doctors for Comprehensive Gender Dysphoria Treatment
Dr. Akul Gupta
Consultant Psychiatrist
Therapy Mode Online, In-person
Languages Hindi, English
Ms. Lovleena Sharma
Clinical Psychologist
Therapy Mode Online, In-person
Languages Hindi, English
Ms. Ayushi Paul
Clinical Psychologist
Therapy Mode Online, In-person
Languages Hindi, English, Bengali
Ms. Sulagna Mondal
Clinical Psychologist
Therapy Mode Online, In-person
Languages Hindi, English, Bengali
Dr. Sunil Mittal
Senior Consultant Psychiatrist
Therapy Mode Online, In-person
Languages Hindi, English
Ms. Mitali Srivastava
Senior Clinical Psychologist
Therapy Mode Online, In-person
Languages Hindi, English
Compassionate Mental Health Care for Gender Dysphoria
At BetterPlace, our experts have helped over 50,000 people navigate Gender Dysphoria and other mental health challenges.
- Depression
- ADHD
- Generalized Anxiety
- OCD
- Schizophrenia
- Anorexia
- Agoraphobia
- Panic Disorder
- Social Anxiety
- Bulimia nervosa
- Bipolar Disorder
- Personality Disorders
- Binge Eating
Dr. Sunil Mittal
Dr. Mitali Srivastava
What makes our approach 'better'?
Personalised Gender-Affirming Care
Your treatment plan is tailored to your unique needs, whether you need therapy, medical support, or both. We respect your identity and help you navigate your journey in a way that feels right for you.
Collaboration with Medical Experts
Our mental health professionals work closely with primary care doctors, and other specialists to ensure your psychological and medical needs are addressed together.
Proactive Mental Health Monitoring
We track your mental well-being continuously, ensuring you receive ongoing support to manage gender dysphoria, anxiety, or depression as your journey evolves.
Support for Family and Friends
If you choose, we can help educate and involve your loved ones, creating a stronger support system as you navigate your gender journey.
Visiting BetterPlace? Here’s what to expect
When visiting BetterPlace, you can expect a welcoming environment where there is 0% judgment.
Detailed initial session (90 min)
Meet with both a psychologist and a psychiatrist
Comprehensive testing
Get an accurate understanding of your mental health
Treatment phase (3-8 weeks)
Get a personalised treatment plan
Long-term support
Get ongoing care with regular follow-ups
Mental Health Partners to the prestigious National Heart Institute
Visit our Experts today!
BetterPlace
At National Heart InstituteFirst Floor, Annexe Building D Block, East of Kailash, New Delhi
Frequently Asked Questions
Gender Dysphoria refers to the distress experienced due to a mismatch between assigned gender and gender identity while being transgender pertains to the identification with a gender different from the one assigned at birth.
Gender Dysphoria can start at any age. It usually begins in childhood, however, when left untreated, it exhibits symptoms during adulthood.
Not all individuals pursue medical interventions; treatment plans are personalised based on your needs and goals.
Family and friends can show acceptance by educating themselves on Gender Dysphoria to understand what their loved one is experiencing. They can respect the chosen pronouns of their loved one, listen without judgement, advocate for them and encourage professional help.
Hormone therapy is an effective treatment, however, it has potential risks and side effects such as fatigue, nausea, weight gain, bone thinning, etc. Medical supervision is essential.
