Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists Bulletin Summer 2023 - 95

Engagement, Diversity, & Inclusion Task Force Report
Mental Health Challenges Faced by Transgender
Patients
Transgender adolescents often face a range of
mental health challenges due to their unique
experiences, societal pressures, and lack of
family acceptance encountered during their
formative years. Discrimination, stigma, and lack
of understanding can contribute to higher rates
of anxiety, depression, and other mental health
conditions. There is emerging evidence of increased
rates of bipolar disorder, posttraumatic stress
disorder, and substance use disorders. Dental
professionals should be mindful of these potential
concerns and provide a supportive and empathetic
environment.
Barriers to Care Experienced by Transgender
Individuals
Transgender adolescent patients often face
several barriers to accessing quality health care.
These barriers can have a significant impact on
their physical and mental well-being. Here are
some common barriers to care for transgender
adolescent patients:
◾ Lack of Knowledgeable Providers: Finding
health care providers who are knowledgeable
and experienced in transgender health can be
challenging, especially in areas with limited
resources. Many health care professionals
may lack proper training and understanding
of transgender health care needs, leading to
misdiagnosis or inadequate care.
◾ Stigma and Discrimination: Transgender
adolescents may encounter stigma,
discrimination, and bias from health care
providers, which can deter them from seeking
care altogether. The fear of being judged,
misgendered, or facing transphobic attitudes
can create significant barriers to accessing
necessary health care services.
◾ Financial Constraints: The cost of
transgender-specific health care services,
such as hormone therapy or gender-affirming
surgeries, can be prohibitive for many
transgender adolescents and their families.
Limited insurance coverage and lack of
financial resources can make accessing these
treatments unaffordable.
◾ Legal Barriers: Legal barriers, such as
requiring parental consent for certain medical
procedures or gender-affirming treatments, can
pose challenges for transgender adolescents
whose parents may not be supportive or refuse
to provide consent. These legal requirements
may limit their ability to receive appropriate
care.
◾ Lack of Insurance Coverage: Many insurance
plans do not cover gender-affirming
treatments or may have restrictive policies
regarding transgender health care. The
absence of comprehensive insurance
coverage can make it difficult for transgender
adolescents to access the necessary
treatments and services they need.
◾ Mental Health Stigma: Transgender
adolescents often experience higher rates of
mental health issues, such as depression and
anxiety. However, the stigma surrounding
mental health can prevent them from seeking
mental health care services. Inadequate access
to mental health support can exacerbate their
mental health challenges.
◾ Geographical Accessibility: In certain
regions, there may be limited access to
transgender-friendly health care services.
Transgender adolescents living in rural areas
or areas without specialized health care
providers may have to travel long distances
to access appropriate care, which can be a
significant barrier for many.
Addressing these barriers requires concerted
efforts from health care providers, policy makers,
and society as a whole. Improving provider
education and awareness, reducing stigma and
discrimination, advocating for comprehensive
insurance coverage, and expanding access to
transgender-specific health care services are
essential steps toward ensuring equitable and
accessible care for transgender adolescent
patients.
Summer 2023 PCSO Bulletin
95
Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists Bulletin Summer 2023

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists Bulletin Summer 2023
