Dysphoria is a word that gets thrown around a lot in the trans community.

Dysphoria is an intense discomfort, distress, or unease that typically has to do with one of three aspects of gender identity: physical, social, or mental.

Dysphoria is NOT a qualifier for being trans.There are plenty of trans people who don’t experience dysphoria.

But since it is very common, we thought it would be worth telling you about how and when it shows up, what it feels like, and how you can support your kids through it.

To help me with this conversation, I’ve brought in my good friend and colleague at Wild Heart Society, Karen Kopulos.

Karen is white and uses they/them pronouns. Their work focuses primarily on trans and queer youth and their families and they have been doing this work in various forms for more than a decade. Clients rave about Karen’s ability to meet kids and parents right where they’re at, without judgment and gently moving them forward.

Karen hails from Ohio and moved to Portland after college, where they’ve found love, happiness, and a community of support. When they aren’t working, they’re spending time with their partner, playing with their dog, or immersing themselves in nature.

Check out the full episode to hear about:

• Common environments that may trigger dysphoria
• How physical dysphoria may show up for AFAB kids as they grow
• How allowing kids to transition gives them the freedom to explore their gender expression
• Why AMAB kids may develop mental and physical dysphoria earlier and require medical interventions sooner
• Different ways to approach bottom dysphoria for both AFAB and AMAB kids

Find out more about Karen Kopulos, LMHC:

• Wildheartsociety.org

Find out more about Mackenzie Dunham:

• Wildheartsociety.org
• wildheartsociety.org/downloads
• Wild Heart Society on Facebook
• Wild Heart Society on Instagram

Resources:

• Binders - https://www.gc2b.co/
• Binder Safety FAQ
• A Queer Owned Sex Shop with a wide range of gender expression options https://www.sheboptheshop.com/gender-expression/
• Clothes, binders, swimwear - tomboyx.com
• Clothes, swimwear - dapperboi.com
• Clothes and swimwear for trans girls - https://rubyshines.com/
• Masturbation Sleeve for trans boys, and other affirming products - https://www.ftmessentials.com/products/shotpocket
• Custom Suits for Trans Bodies - https://www.bindleandkeep.com/