Interesting discussion on how we may label some things as mysterious mental health issues when they are actually due to something concrete. It provides an ironic contrast to the rush to concretize gender dysphoria that may be more of a psychological reaction to the social and emotional challenges of life. How do we distinguish things that need a specific, targeted physical solution from those that probably require watchful waiting combined with talk therapy or other forms of emotional support?
Very well said. One of my takeaways from the experience is the suspicion that many cases of gender dysphoria are manifestations of an anxiety disorder. The brain deals with anxiety in a multitude of ways -- everything from substance abuse, to believing in demon possession, to various phobias/avoidance behaviors, to eating disorders, to OCD, to thinking you're trapped in the wrong body. Some people can heal with therapy alone; many (like me) will need medical treatment. What KIND of medical treatment is the key question. As long as we're not treating the underlying problem--say, injecting wrong-sex hormones or cutting off body parts in an attempt to treat a psychiatric illness -- the underlying problem will persist and probably worsen.
Good to hear from Jocelyn about her experiences, and recovering her mental health. I wish her the best of luck with her new book. Self-publishing can be a good way to go if an author enjoys the marketing and business sides of the job.
Jenny, what a great conversation this was (and is)! You brought out insights I didn't know I had. Thank you. -Jocelyn
Interesting discussion on how we may label some things as mysterious mental health issues when they are actually due to something concrete. It provides an ironic contrast to the rush to concretize gender dysphoria that may be more of a psychological reaction to the social and emotional challenges of life. How do we distinguish things that need a specific, targeted physical solution from those that probably require watchful waiting combined with talk therapy or other forms of emotional support?
Very well said. One of my takeaways from the experience is the suspicion that many cases of gender dysphoria are manifestations of an anxiety disorder. The brain deals with anxiety in a multitude of ways -- everything from substance abuse, to believing in demon possession, to various phobias/avoidance behaviors, to eating disorders, to OCD, to thinking you're trapped in the wrong body. Some people can heal with therapy alone; many (like me) will need medical treatment. What KIND of medical treatment is the key question. As long as we're not treating the underlying problem--say, injecting wrong-sex hormones or cutting off body parts in an attempt to treat a psychiatric illness -- the underlying problem will persist and probably worsen.
Good to hear from Jocelyn about her experiences, and recovering her mental health. I wish her the best of luck with her new book. Self-publishing can be a good way to go if an author enjoys the marketing and business sides of the job.
Thanks, Daniel! Yes, with this one (Ticket to Madland), I decided to self publish. It'll be out on Nov 19th.
Are you using print on demand or traditional distribution please? I looked for a pre-order link online but couldn't find one.
Fascinating conversation!
Thanks, Dahlia!