The rise of beliefs and changing attitudes towards mental health, the proliferation of porn on mobile phones, and the increasing number of minors seeking treatment for sexual anxiety in Western countries since the 2010s have led to a significant increase in the number of young people struggling with gender identity issues. A British pediatrician, Hilary Cass, has conducted an extensive investigation into the treatment of sexual anxiety in children and young people and has found that teenage girls are now the majority of minors seeking treatment for gender identity issues.
Cass emphasizes the importance of understanding the reasons behind this trend in order to provide appropriate treatment for young people. She notes that for most individuals, treatment does not necessarily mean hormones or surgery, but rather a comprehensive approach that includes support and guidance. The report highlights the need for evidence-based guidelines and systematic research to determine the most effective and safe treatments for young people struggling with gender anxiety.
One key finding of the report is that there is a lack of robust evidence supporting the benefits of puberty blockers in alleviating gender anxiety in young people. Additionally, concerns have been raised about long-term effects such as hormonal treatments on mental and psychosexual development, fertility, and overall health. The report recommends a cautious approach to prescribing appearance-changing hormones to young people under 18 years old while stressing that their well-being must be closely monitored throughout the treatment process.
The report also addresses important factors contributing to gender anxiety in young people such as online harassment, social media use, exposure to pornography, and pressure to conform to societal norms of masculinity or femininity. It emphasizes that individualized and holistic care is necessary when treating youth experiencing gender identity issues by taking into account their unique experiences and circumstances.
Overall, Cass’s research underscores the need for evidence-based guidelines and individualized care when treating minors struggling with gender anxiety. By addressing factors contributing to this issue such as social media use and exposure to pornography alongside hormonal treatments, we can help ensure that these individuals receive appropriate care while minimizing any potential risks associated with these treatments.