For many people, gender is something they rarely have to think about. For others, it can be a deeply personal journey of understanding who they are and how they fit into the world.

A transgender person is someone whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth. Gender identity refers to a person’s internal sense of being male, female, both, neither or somewhere along a broader spectrum of gender identities.

This is not the same as sexual orientation. Gender identity relates to who a person is, while sexual orientation relates to who a person is attracted to.

More than a personal journey

Research shows that many transgender people face many challenges in their daily lives. These can include discrimination, bullying, harassment, rejection by family or community members, and difficulties accessing healthcare services.

These experiences can contribute to higher levels of stress, anxiety, depression and trauma.

In many cases, it is not a person’s gender identity itself that causes distress, but rather the way they are treated by others.

What is gender dysphoria?

Some transgender people experience what is known as gender dysphoria. This refers to significant distress caused by a mismatch between a person’s gender identity and their physical characteristics or the gender they were assigned at birth.

Not all transgender people experience gender dysphoria, and experiences vary from person to person.

What does transitioning mean?

Transitioning, sometimes referred to as gender affirmation, is the process through which a person begins to live according to their gender identity.

This process looks different for everyone. Some people may change their name, clothing, hairstyle or pronouns. Others may seek medical support such as hormone treatment or surgery. Some may choose not to pursue any medical interventions at all.

The importance of support

Research consistently shows that support from family, friends, communities and healthcare professionals can make a significant difference in the wellbeing of transgender people.

Support groups have been found to reduce feelings of isolation and provide spaces where people can share experiences and find understanding from others facing similar challenges.

Studies also suggest that young transgender people who receive support from their families tend to report higher self-esteem and better mental health outcomes than those who do not.

The South African context

South Africa’s Constitution is widely regarded as one of the most progressive in the world regarding equality and human rights. However, transgender South Africans continue to report experiences of stigma and discrimination.

Healthcare access remains a challenge for many. While some gender-affirming treatments are available in the public healthcare system, services are limited and often concentrated in a small number of facilities.

Mental health professionals and advocacy groups continue to call for greater awareness, improved healthcare training and increased support for transgender and gender-diverse individuals.

While public understanding of transgender experiences has grown in recent years, many advocates say education and open conversations remain key to reducing prejudice and helping people feel accepted for who they are.

Read about Luthando Njeza’s personal journey of transitioning and his experiences throughout the process.