Mental health of trans women a major issue: Study

The study conducted in November 2022, in collaboration with Kolkata Rista, a trans-led community-based organisation, explores how stigma in families, schools, workplaces and healthcare affects their well-being, contributing to high rates of depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts.

Authored by Dr Sandhya Kanaka Yatirajula, Dr Ankita Mukherjee, Dr Santosh Giri and Prof. Pallab K. Maulik, the study shows how rejection often begins at home. This rejection damages their self-esteem and creates emotional trauma that persists throughout their lives.

In schools, bullying and harassment are common, forcing many to leave education prematurely. Without qualifications, employment opportunities are scarce, leaving begging or sex work as the only options for survival.

Healthcare presents another obstacle. Numerous trans women report mistreatment by hospital staff, alongside a lack of understanding from medical professionals. As a result, their health needs, both physical and mental, are frequently ignored.

The study points to alarmingly high rates of depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts linked to the systemic barriers trans women face.

“One of the most pressing revelations from the study is the lack of mental health research focusing on trans women, especially in low- and middle-income countries like India,” said Dr Yatirajula. “While global studies often concentrate on HIV-related issues, the mental health needs of transgender communities remain largely unaddressed. This research highlights the urgent need for interventions to address stigma and its impact on their lives,” she explains.

Acceptance and social support, the researchers argue, are essential for improving mental health and fostering resilience. However, in a country where around 4.8 million transgender people live, these remain rare. Education and employment could play transformative roles in improving their quality of life but require structural changes to become accessible.

“The media can play a crucial role in influencing people’s perception of transgender people,” said Dr Ankita Mukherjee. “In the past, media portrayals of trans persons reinforced and perpetuated stereotypes. However, in recent times, a shift in the media’s perception is discernible. This shift is welcome and may go a long way in reducing transphobia.”

The study also recommends safe spaces for trans women where they could feel valued and respected. Researchers suggest that policies must promote gender affirmation and equity to dismantle stigma and exclusion. Published in Wellcome Open Research, the study calls for more investment in mental health research, evidence-based policymaking and systemic changes that include trans women in all aspects of society.