Gender identity

In recent years, there has been a significant increase in children and young people who are gender questioning. For some, this experience can come with significant levels of gender-related distress which is also referred to as gender dysphoria. It is important that young people have access to open and supportive spaces to explore their experiences. Adolescence is a really important time of change and there are lots of factors that can affect their wellbeing.

Children and young people cope and respond to gender distress in different ways. Some young people might get the support they need to thrive through friends, family and other support networks. For some young people, however, they may require more specialist assessment and input. Young people who are experiencing gender-related distress may also need additional mental health assessment and support.

If you think you, your child or young person you care for, might be experiencing gender-related distress, you might find some useful information in the our support section below.

It is recommended that families discuss this initially with their GP. A helpful first step might involve accessing some broader wellbeing support around issues including anxiety or low mood. The following organisations in Bristol offer broad therapeutic support to young people:

You can access more specialist input if there are greater concerns around the child or young person being at risk, or the gender distress continues despite trying other support. CAMHS supports people with gender dysphoria who also have other mental health difficulties. Visit our conditions overview page for further information about the support you might need.

It may also be necessary to refer to the UK’s national specialist service, GIDS (Gender Identity Development Service). Visit the GIDS website for helpful information and links to additional resources.

An independent review of child and adolescent gender services is currently taking place. For more information and to find out how you can contribute, visit The Cass Review here.