A first intervention to support the mental health of transgender individuals in Eastern Europe

Abstract

Abstract Background Transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) people in Romania experience high discrimination and related dysphoria, while gender-affirmation resources are scant. TGD Romanians report significant emotional distress and no access to competent mental health care. This pilot tested the feasibility, acceptability, and early efficacy of the first evidence-based mental health intervention implemented in Eastern Europe, using cognitive behavioral therapy within an identity-affirming framework. Methods Eligible TGD individuals (e.g., ≥ 18 years old, symptoms of past-90-day depression and/or anxiety) were recruited through community outreach. Participants completed a baseline (BL) assessment, were assigned to one of two trained psychologists, attended up to 16 1-hr virtual counseling sessions, and completed a 5-month follow-up assessment. Participants reported demographics, mental health (e.g., anxiety, depression), and identity-related psychosocial experiences (e.g., gender identity congruence). Analyses were conducted using paired sample t-tests and Wilcoxon rank sum tests to compare pre-post intervention scores. Results Of 24 participants enrolled (40% transgender female, 43% transgender male, 17% non-binary; M age=25.1, SD = 6.53), 22 were retained at follow-up. Significant reductions occurred from BL to follow-up in depression, anxiety, and psychological distress (p < 0.001), alcohol-related problems, gender identify rumination and difficulties with emotion regulation (p = 0.05). Satisfaction with the intervention was high. There were no changes in suicidal ideation, assertiveness, transgender congruence, gender identity acceptance, and emotion regulation. Conclusions This first intervention to support TGD Romanian's mental health shows promise and can be further studied in a randomized controlled trial. Its implementation across similar high-stigma, low-resource countries can provide critical mental health support in settings lacking such resources.