From Retraumatization to Recovery: Making Acute Psychiatric Care Work for Transgender and Gender-Diverse People

Psychiatric Services 2026

View at publisher
Authors: Rashmi de Silva Wijeyeratne, Juveria Zaheer, Jasdeep Alexander Sidhu, Kinnon R. MacKinnon, Rowen K. Stark, Paul Kurdyak, David Gratzer, Kat J. D. Butler, Wayne Baici, Victoria I. R. Anderson, June Sing Hong Lam
DOI: 10.1176/appi.ps.20250610
Cited by: 1
References: 9

Abstract

Transgender and gender-diverse people frequently experience acute psychiatric care as traumatizing because of structural stigma, including misgendering, discontinuation of gender-affirming medications, and restrictions on gender expression. The authors leveraged lived-experience evidence and population-based data to outline changes that reduce traumatization and improve continuity after discharge: standardized documentation and display of chosen names and pronouns, consistent access to gender-affirming medications and gender expression items, trauma-informed de-escalation, involvement of chosen family, and proactive postdischarge supports. Framed within social determinants of mental health, these actions are feasible in hospital and emergency settings and may reduce disengagement, repeat crises, and outcome inequities.

Fields of Study & Subjects

LGBTQ Health Identity and Policy Sex and Gender in Healthcare Mental Health via Writing

Publication details

Journal / source
Psychiatric Services
Publisher
American Psychiatric Association Publishing
Volume
77
Issue
8
Pages
789–793
Publication date
3 June 2026
Language
EN