Stress Management Support Group

I wish I could come up with something to help other than tell you I am sorry people are treating you so badly. Unfortunately too many people are closed minded to people being different. I hope I don't offend you by saying that. People should mind their own business. You made a choice it is your business. All you can do is try to ignore their ignorance. Weather the storm and stand by your decision. Good luck to you.

Hi Katie

Welcome to the board. I'm sorry to hear about how cruel people have been to you lately. In this day and age, its really sad when that much ignorance and closed mindedness still exist.

Not sure where you live but are there any transgender support groups in your area that you could join to make new friends?
Sometimes having a support group can really help lift your spirits.

Also, if those who are making fun of you are friends, family or co-workers I would definitely have a talk w/ them about how it makes you feel when they tease you, because regardless of what decision you choose to make in life you do deserve respect. And if they can't be supportive of your decision (s) then i would definitely find a more supportive group of friends or acquaintances

Lastly, you might not be able to control the rude things that people say to you, but you can always control how you choose to react to people. Since being transgender makes you really happy then hold your head up high, stay strong and be proud, Your happiness after all is the only thing that truly matters.

I know its not easy, but try to hang in there Good Luck! :D

I think it's sad what you're dealing with, having being bullied and made fun in the past I can understand. My suggestion is to seek positive reinforcement from peers, and also make sure to have someone you trust who can validate or invalidate at least some of your feelings... Like a best friend saying, "yes I did note when this person was rude" or.."here you didn't see correctly, cause this wasn't directed towards you". That imo is important because sometimes our perception can be clouded, precisely by stress, past experiences or even mental illness. I can't give you a diagnostic but having gone through similar experiences, I can say be sure to see a psychiatric or psychologist cause it can help to dissipate a lot of it.

Another thing I'd suggest is to talk to several other transgenders who have gone through transition and talk positively about it (ex is susans.org). And if possible remember that this is not limited to sex change, cause everyone have to make decisions that are theirs and may not meet the unanimity; whether it's in marriage, career or personal. So don't let the judgment of others bear heavy on your mind or your life.

All the best.

Hun i do belong to a support group right here as far as locally goes sweetie I live in South Arkansas. People here are closed minded and will always be. As far as friends goes no one wants to be friends with a freak. I lost everything when I came out but I'm still here it's just very depressing and seeing a therapist hasnt really helped it just opened the wounds deeper.

You are NOT a freak. Nobody can help who they are and everyone should respect that. People are cruel in this world... those people dont deserve your attention. Being different can be a good thing. That's the way God made you. I am a lesbian myself but havent endured most of the trials of alot of my gay/trans friends. Perhaps a change... maybe moving to a community where there are more people like you... like us... I live in Asheville, NC and there are so many openminded people here its wonderful... even though there are still alot of close minded people as well... having MANY gay/trans friends around helps be proud and happy with who you are.... good luck to you with everything, try to keep a positive attitude and LOVE yourself!!

I am sorry to hear of people being close minded. I like the reply above about moving to a more open community...is that possible, do you think? It's pitiful that you lost people due to this. Do you have family or anyone that is accepting? People fear what they don't understand...however, there is nothing right about being cruel to others. I'm glad you are happy with your decision and you're happy with yourself...that is a truly wonderful thing!

You are not a freak. When I make friends with people it is never from the packaging. It is the inner person I connect with. I agree that maybe a move to a more openminded area would be a good idea. I confess I learned the hard way. It was a lack of understanding and my religious upbringing. I have totally tossed away my closemindness as I got to know people. Also, I want to be loved for who I am. I am totally shy, suffer anxiety and feel people won't accept me if they really knew me. I hope I'm making sense because sometimes I have a hard time trying to say what I really mean. I hear your pain and just wanted to give you some support.