🌈 Big Rise in Support Sessions for Children Questioning Gender 🌈
Childline has seen a significant surge in counselling sessions for young people questioning their gender identity! They’ve reported a 20% increase over the past year, highlighting the ongoing conversations and support needs within this community.
In the year leading up to March, 476 sessions dealt specifically with gender dysphoria, which is when someone feels discomfort because their biological sex doesn’t match their gender identity. To put it into perspective, there were a total of 2,457 sessions focused on sexuality and gender identity!
What’s touching is that about 64% of these sessions involved young people identifying as transgender or non-binary. But these numbers reflect sessions, not individual children, as some reach out more than once for help and advice.
Notably, 40% of these contacts were about the anxiety and fears surrounding coming out. This is a real indication of how many young people feel nervous about opening up due to worries about acceptance from family and friends.
With it being Pride Month, it’s crucial for young people to know they have a safe, confidential, and accepting space at Childline to express their true selves without fear. Childline’s director, Shaun Friel, assures young people that they’re not alone. He states, “We’re here to support you. You can be your authentic self when you reach out.”
A gentle reminder that you’re never alone, and there are always people ready to listen and help. 💕