Hormone Therapy Lessened Depression, Lowered Suicide Risk Among Transgender Adults, Study Says

Topline

Access to hormone therapy could result in less depression, lower suicide risk and decreased gender dysphoria for transgender adults, according to a study published Thursday, complementing other studies suggesting similar help for transgender youth, as the issue of “gender-affirming” care continues to be highly politicized.

Over 20 states have restricted or banned access to gender-affirming care, including 19 this year.

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Key Facts

A study involving 64 transgender and “gender-diverse” adults aged 18 to 70 years indicated decreased gender dysphoria, less depression and fewer suicidal thoughts or actions after they were provided testosterone therapy over three months, according to a study published Thursday by the JAMA Network.

Testosterone therapy is typically used in gender care to suppress female sex characteristics and most common for transgender men.

All participants—who had not previously received testosterone treatment—were asked to measure their levels of gender dysphoria, depression and risk of suicide prior to the study and after three months.

Each participant began receiving testosterone treatment within one week after the first study visit and at regular intervals throughout the three months, researchers said.

Compared to a control group that had not received treatment, participants indicated a “significant decrease” or “significant reduction” in depression, suicidal thoughts or behaviors, and gender dysphoria, including a “clinically significant” reduction in depression among 61% of participants.

Researchers noted that because the study had a “short follow-up period” of three months, additional studies about the long-term impact of testosterone or other hormone therapy were required.

Big Number

22. That’s how many states have restricted or banned access to gender-affirming care. Of these, 19 bills that restricted access were approved this year.

Surprising Fact

An estimated 82% of transgender people have considered suicide, according to a 2020 study. Suicidality was highest among trans youth—anyone under age 18—as 56% indicated they had attempted suicide, while 86% reported suicidality.

Contra

The American Academy of Pediatrics reissued its support for gender-affirming services for minors earlier this year, though they noted additional research was required following European-based studies that questioned the effectiveness of treatment for adolescents. A review by England’s National Health Service found there was a “lack of consensus and open discussion” about gender dysphoria and how medical professionals should respond. Dr. Hilary Cass—who authored the review—questioned whether children would be supported if they decided against transitioning. Sweden’s National Board of Health—which updated its guidelines to prevent minors from accessing gender-affirming care last year—said the “evidence base for hormonal interventions” for minors is “low quality, and that hormonal treatments may carry risks.”

Key Background

The study is the latest indicating access to some treatments can improve the mental health among transgender people. A study published last year by the JAMA Network—which measured depression and suicidality for transgender youth under age 18—indicated that young transgender people who received puberty blockers or gender-affirming hormones were 60% less likely to be depressed and 73% less likely to have suicidal thoughts. In 2018, the American Academy of Pediatrics said transgender youth experience a “disproportionately high” rate of homelessness, physical violence, substance abuse and are often subjected to harassment. The American Medical Association argued gender-affirming care “can be life saving,” adding “widespread misinformation” about medical care for transgender youth has resulted in more restrictions nationwide.

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