Psychiatrist Questions Self-harm

Self Harm and Depressive Thoughts Induced by Gender Dysphoria

I've been having gender dysphoria (FTM) for about a year and a half to two years. I'm not sure what brought it on as no medication changes have taken place in that time frame, and the meds I take as needed (Hydroxyzine 10 mg for anxiety) don't appear to quell or strengthen the thoughts. I own a binder, but unfortunately since I have DDs it is not only uncomfortable but doesn't work as well. (I also can't bind every day for safety reasons.) I end up still having a pretty large chest when I bind, which makes no difference in the dysphoria. I have been considering top surgery or breast reduction for this reason, but as of now it isn't much of an option. I'd like to get a doctor's insight on what I should do, and/or what my top surgery options/concerns would be. Thanks in advance to whomever responds! :)

Female | 15 years old
Complaint duration: 1.5-2 yrs
Medications: Zoloft 75 mg daily for anxiety, Hydroxyzine as needed for anxiety, Zyrtec daily for allergies, Xulane patch for period control
Conditions: Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

2 Answers

Ssri could help
Hi youngster: I can see that you are in a difficult situation but, with time and a correct treatment it can be improved. You are at an age in which some young people develop this problem. To address the issue, there are two issues that need to be addressed. I usually do not give advice without evaluating the patient but you have described very well your conflict and I can provide some basic advise.
1) I see that you have been diagnosed with anxiety and OCD. It is likely that these conditions are increasing the feelings you have and if treated properly, you would have some relief. The dose of Zoloft you are taking may treat the anxiety but is not treating the OCD part. In general the treatment of OCD is done with higher doses of the SSRI. Also, Prozac or clomipramine are first line treatments for OCD, so adjusting the dose of medication and/or changing the medication for a first line medication for OCD and reaching the right dose may help significantly.
2) The second point and as important as point # 1 is doing intensive psychotherapy with a therapist that understands gender issues and can help you along the way together with the medication. Choosing the right therapist is paramount in cases like yours. I am positive that if you do the right treatments, you will get the relief you deserve. My recommendation is that you do these treatments before you decide about any surgery. Many times, without the treatment you may still face the same problem even after any surgery. I hope tis is helpful for you. Best