Transition is the process for trans individuals to express their internal gender identity outwardly through emotional, social, or medical means. Gender dysphoria is defined as strong negative feelings such as distress an individual experiences when their sex assigned at birth does not match their social and psychological identity.1 Keep in mind that there is a…
Tag: mental illness
An Overview of Disability and Sexuality
One of the most important aspects to remember when discussing the topic of sex and disability is that people with disabilities are sexual beings. Oftentimes, people assume that those with disabilities have no sexual desires or needs and tend to treat them as children or victims in need of protection. In reality, the majority of…
Sex and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a common mental disorder that can develop after a person experiences trauma.1 PTSD can affect anyone regardless of age, sex, ethnicity, or background. Although PTSD is most commonly associated with war or military experience, PTSD can also develop following a natural disaster, accident, sexual assault, or other traumatic or life-threatening…
Sex And Depression
Depression is a very common mental disorder impacting the lives of millions of Americans every year.1 In addition to affecting a person’s mood, energy, and physical health, depression can also impact an individual’s sex life, both in terms of desire and function.2 Fortunately, depression can be treated and there are resources available to ease the…
Sex and Personality Disorders
Overview of Personality Disorders The term personality refers to patterns that characterize how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. Personality is what makes each person unique. Personality disorders occur when certain personality traits are too rigid or compulsive. As defined by the American Psychological Association (APA), personality disorders are a group of mental illnesses that…
Suicide in the LGBTQ+ Community
Disclaimer: This article discusses suicide, violence, homophobia, and transphobia. If you are suicidal, have suicidal tendencies, or are sensitive to suicide there are resources provided at the end of the article that can provide you with support. It is always okay to ask for help. Suicide rates have risen sharply in the past decade, making…
Postpartum Depression
Nearly 80% of new mothers experience what is referred to as the “baby blues.”1 The baby blues appear a few days to a week after giving birth, and may manifest as moodiness, irritability, insomnia (problems falling and/or staying asleep), anxiety, or tearfulness.1, 2 Following childbirth, the body goes through significant changes, including a drop in…
Homophobia
According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, homophobia is the irrational fear of, aversion to, or discrimination against homosexuality or homosexuals.1 However, people commonly describe homophobia as less of a fear and more of a prejudice and an intolerance toward those within the LGBTQ community.2 Whether it is believed to be an inherent and inborn quality or…