New Delhi, Nov 25 (IANS) Trans women in India face significant stigma, and have high rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts, according to a study on Monday.
Researchers from The George Institute for Global Health India with global collaborators, have highlighted the stigma and mental health challenges faced by trans women in India. The study examines their experiences of rejection, discrimination, and social exclusion, calling for urgent action to address these issues.
The study, published in the journal Wellcome Open Research, sheds light on how stigma begins early in life — within families where trans women are often rejected, leading to a loss of self-esteem.
In schools, bullying and harassment force many to drop out, leaving them without education or stable employment. Many trans women are left with limited options, often turning to begging or sex work to survive.
Healthcare discrimination also emerges as a major issue. Stories of mistreatment by hospital staff and lack of understanding from healthcare providers discourage many trans women from seeking medical help.
As a result, their physical and mental health needs often go unmet. These experiences take a significant toll on mental well-being, contributing to high rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts among trans women.
“One of the most pressing revelations from the study is the lack of mental health research focusing on trans women, especially in low- and middle-income countries like India. While global studies often focus on HIV-related issues, the mental health needs of transgender communities remain largely unaddressed. This research highlights the urgent need for interventions to address stigma and its impact on their lives,” said Dr. Sandhya Kanaka Yatirajula, Program Lead- Mental Health, The George Institute for Global Health India.
For such people, social support is a beacon of hope. Acceptance, education, and opportunities for employment are powerful tools that can foster resilience and promote mental well-being. However, in India, where an estimated 4.8 million transgender people live, such opportunities remain scarce.
The study pressed the need for gender-affirming policies that promote inclusion and equity. Researchers stress the importance of creating safe spaces where trans women feel valued and respected.
–IANS
rvt/
Disclaimer
The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. The information is provided by TodayIndia.news and while we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.
In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this website.
Through this website you are able to link to other websites which are not under the control of TodayIndia.news We have no control over the nature, content and availability of those sites. The inclusion of any links does not necessarily imply a recommendation or endorse the views expressed within them.
Every effort is made to keep the website up and running smoothly. However, TodayIndia.news takes no responsibility for, and will not be liable for, the website being temporarily unavailable due to technical issues beyond our control.
For any legal details or query please visit original source link given with news or click on Go to Source.
Our translation service aims to offer the most accurate translation possible and we rarely experience any issues with news post. However, as the translation is carried out by third part tool there is a possibility for error to cause the occasional inaccuracy. We therefore require you to accept this disclaimer before confirming any translation news with us.
If you are not willing to accept this disclaimer then we recommend reading news post in its original language.
