Mental Stress and Health-Related Quality of Life in Adolescents with Gender Dysphoria

Abstract

Mental Stress and Health-Related Quality of Life in Adolescents with Gender Dysphoria Although the level of mental stress in adolescents with gender dysphoria is found to be generally high in many studies, differences have been shown between samples of gender dysphoria clinics for adolescents in different countries. However, a comparison within the German speaking area is lacking. In this article we compared samples of gender dysphoria clinics from Munster (Germany) and Zurich (Switzerland) and tested potential correlates of mental stress using quantitative methods. Subsequently, we interviewed clients from both clinics regarding mental stressors and protective factors. There were no quantitative differences in the level of mental stress of clients between Munster and Zurich, whereas health-related quality of life was significantly higher in Munster. Problems in physical well-being and school environment were the strongest correlates of mental stress. This reflects in the interviews, too, in addition to further related factors reported. We conclude that physical well-being and inclusion at school should be addressed with special emphasis in counseling or treatment of adolescents with gender dysphoria to counter the in average high levels of mental stress.