Depression in Trans People: A Review of the Risk Factors

Depression is a commonly occurring syndrome characterized by mood-related symptoms; however, it is understudied among trans people (transgender, transsexual, or transitioned). A review of the existing literature on depression revealed eight factors pertinent to trans communities including discrimination, disclosure, identity support, hormones and sex-reassignment surgeries, sociodemographics, socioeconomic factors, substance use, and access to health and social services. This report demonstrates that depression in trans people is a multifaceted condition, which is not easily explained by a single factor. Developing an understanding of such complexities may open the door to more sensitive and appropriate mental health care for trans people.