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Study Confirms Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy Reduces Depression Risk by 15%

Research highlights the mental health benefits of hormone therapy for transgender individuals, as access faces increasing legal restrictions.

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THOMASVILLE, AL - MAY 4: Katie holds Raymond's testosterone supply after successfully filling his prescription at Walgreens in Thomasville, Ala. on May 4, 2023. (Photo by Rory Doyle for The Washington Post via Getty Images)

Overview

  • A four-year study of 3,592 transgender, nonbinary, and gender-diverse adults found a 15% lower risk of moderate-to-severe depression for those receiving hormone therapy.
  • The findings support the role of gender-affirming hormone therapy as medically necessary care for improving mental health outcomes.
  • Transgender individuals face disproportionately high rates of depression, with about 33% showing signs of depression compared to 8.3% of the general U.S. population.
  • Access to gender-affirming care is increasingly restricted by state laws and executive orders, exacerbating mental health disparities in transgender communities.
  • Community-based health centers serving LGBTQ+ patients are critical for providing accessible care and addressing systemic barriers like discrimination and stigma.