and now i don't know... on Friday i called the only clinic in the province that specializes in LGBT and especially Trans issues to discuss the medical parts of transitioning from mtf. now i cant think about much else, am i doing the right thing (especially at my age)?, can i actually do this?, will i look ok, or will i be hideous? with my health history,is this even smart or doable? so many questions all buzzing around in my head..... well thats my little vent...... oh, what to do...
I don't really know the answers to your questions. Sorry. I'm here for you though, to be a reader for you and I support you 100%. Maybe for now just realize that you can explore the issues and seek information without it meaning you WILL do anything. Maybe consider finding a therapist to help you here?
Thanks Imgay47. I have a great therapist, she's the one who suggested I call the clinic. im just really scared right now TBH. hugh life changes as all....
I am not experienced with trans issues as someone who is admittedly more ignorant than I want to be... I figure I have enough personal issues o read about without reading about issues for others... Dont get me wrong, I get the basics as far as not being an offensive jerk or anything... But I could not even begin to imagine if I didnt identify as my biological sex. I can only imagine its kinda of like straight people not understanding gay, gay people not understanding bi, etc... But at the same time, I think the trans people are some of the bravest in the LGBT community... That being said, considering the life altering effects of any sort of transition, I can only suggest that you make sure your ready. I know if your at that point you are most likely sure about the desire to transition. However that second guessing I can only imagine eats away at you , much like second guessing coming out, could be enough to ruin something that otherwise you would be perfectly happy about... I obviously am admittedly ignorant, but it seems to me even if your sure you want to transition, if done too soon and before your ready, it can probably set you back pretty far emotionally... Anyways, this is honestly one of the first times I have posted regarding any sort of trans issue on EC so I am sincerely apologetic if anything was insensitive... I will close with this, good luck and just know, you always have support hear at EC, and as long as I am successful in not being any sort of offensive (if i do tell me please) I am more than willing to talk anytime... I dont have much in common, but I usually try my best to help give insight to promote self healing and introspection At least I think I do
You are taking steps towards authenticity by working with your therapist and contacting the LGBT clinic about transitioning. In my book taking steps towards authenticity is progress in the right direction :eusa_clap It's normal to be scared about big changes, especially if they bring you closer towards authenticity. See the quote from Joseph Campbell in my sig. It sounds like you have some specific questions about the process, and it's best to push forward and work with your therapist and the clinic to address them.
Good for you lookingforme, that's a huge step. I'm sure you will have many questions but you will work through all of them one by one. It's a huge step, and it's totally natural to feel scared and uncertain right now. It sounds like you are doing the right thing by working with the LGBT/trans specialist. Keep venting on here anytime you need it. We're all here to listen(*hug*) ---------- Post added 12th Sep 2016 at 08:59 AM ---------- I also wanted to say, I can't answer all of your questions, but Yes you can do this, you are strong and brave, you *can* do this. Only you know if it's the right thing, you know the real you, you know who you are. It's the right thing if it is the path that will help you be your authentic self. And you will not be 'hideous'. You will be a fuller happier human being. You will be exactly who you are meant to be. (*hug*)
thanks folks. imgay47, thanks again a beautiful mind, no you weren't offensive, i understand many dont know about trans issues, but i wish everyone would learn the basics. seinnafire, authenticity, yeah thats the goal even if im not sure what that really is right now. and yes the answers i seek lay in a place i may be afraid to go. Baristajedi, my friend Thank you when i read this, this afternoon (didnt get the chance to respond then as my phone died) but it was something i needed to hear. (*hug*)
The only advice I can give you is do it if that's what you want. I'm a idiot and just admitted to myself I'm completely gay some years back and just started telling other folk this year. I'm 37 but feel I have wasted a huge chunk of the best part of my life. And I feel bitter towards myself for it. If you want to do this,if you think its right for you. DO IT! Seriously, don't mess up like me. You only get one shot at life. I hate the fact that I waited this long,but I'd hate it more if I had waited longer. If I was you I would just bite the bullet. What do you have to lose?
Hey peter, thanks for the encouragement, and mate 37 isnt bad. i was 47 when i came out to myself sexuality wise but only facing the gender issues for the past year in a real manner. this is but a step, oh man what a step haha.
Go ahead to the appointment. A consultation isn't the same as committing to any part of transition. Look at it as an information gathering session, and it might not be so scarey.
Those are good words. She's right, you don't have to commit,its a consultation. Hopefully things will be clearer after.
All these are great questions that I'm sure the doc at the clinic you've been to has heard before and are prepared to answer. Ask questions, ask away! It's your journey and it's far better to be over informed than under informed.