LIVING AN AUTHENTIC LIFE: NAVIGATING THE TRANSGENDER JOURNEY

With all the new, emerging and changing sexual identifications, we may be forgiven for our confusion and misunderstanding about sexual and gender labels, terminology and dialogue.

But while all this may seem bewildering—and for those going through it, frightening as well–most of us really do want to understand what it all means, and to understand the people in our world, our communities and our families who are struggling with their own gender and sexual identity, not to mention the judgement of those around them.

In this newest episode of MI Healthy Mind, we’re talking with Hunter and his mom, Roz, who know a thing or two about this very personal journey, who have experienced this transition both as an individual and as a family, and who have navigated this journey in a way that stands as a beautiful example of how everyone should navigate ALL of life’s uncharted territory.

As Roz tells us, she was shocked, but not totally surprised when she thought about how Hunter was as a child. He was allowed to play with any toy he wanted to, and she was very accepting of his choices, but did think it was kind of odd. While she wasn’t steering him into any “role”, and didn’t read much into things, she figured he was just a tomboy. So it kind of all made sense when Hunter finally told her. But their family accepted his decision and just said, “OK, we want you to be safe and happy.”

As a family that has successfully navigated this challenging life change, Roz and Hunter have some advice:

Roz: It’s important to seek support from others who are going through the same thing, to listen, but also to speak out about how this is affecting your life and your family, and especially your transgender child. We need to learn from each other how to help these kids.

Join a support group such as Allied Parents—it’s a safe, fully-vetted group of around 300 parents across the U.S. who share via a phone network— “love at the end of the phone”. They’re a great resource, one of many out there now.

Hunter: For me, the biggest thing is not to let anyone get to you. Find a place that embraces you as you are, people who won’t shame you. It can be very difficult to find that place, but just don’t let any haters get to you. If they don’t get a rise out of you, the haters will quit trying.

Learn more about the journey this family has successfully navigated.

Watch MI Healthy Mind, Sunday

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