Episode 8: Supporting Transgender Youth: A Journey to Our Truest Selves
There is all the love for this special episode today! Chrissie is interviewing Bethann and her daughter Aubrey, who is transgender, about their journey to becoming their truest selves. In our conversation we discussed: advice for parents who may have kids who are wanting to change their pronouns and/or questioning their identity, how to have grace and compassion with each other, and the value of letting go of control and expectations. Look to the show notes below for best practice resources for parents and to learn more about supporting LGBTQIA+ youth. We know that LGBTQIA+ youth and adults are at a greater risk of substance use and misuse, mental health challenges, and suicide risk, all the more reason for education and support for this community. This honest and loving conversation provides support, encouragement and awareness for both parents and youth. Join us!
*Please note we are not medical professionals though we do discuss medical interventions in this episode. Please seek out medical guidance from your pediatrician and/or healthcare providers.
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Things we mentioned during our conversation:
Chrissie gave statistics from NAMI at the beginning of the episode about mental health and substance use rates among LGBTQIA+ youth and adults.
Resources:
PFLAG provides confidential peer support, education, and advocacy to LGBTQ+ people, their parents and families, and allies.
AMAZE.org creates free educational videos + resources to help families talk openly, honestly, and less awkwardly about sex, health, relationships + growing up. They have great resources on gender identity and sexual orientation.
CHOP Gender and Sexuality Development Program The Gender and Sexuality Development Program offers psychosocial and medical support for gender nonconforming, gender expansive and transgender children and youth up to age 21 and their families.
GLSEN works to ensure that LGBTQ students are able to learn and grow in a school environment free from bullying and harassment. Together we can transform our nation's schools into the safe and affirming environment all youth deserve.
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Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE.