Last year when the data by the Telethon Kids Institute in Perth, Trans Pathways was released, it showed us that young trans people are approximately ten times more likely than other young Australians to experience serious anxiety and depression

The first of its kind, 859 trans people were surveyed aged 14–25 years, along with 194 parents and guardians, and the results showed that 1 in every 2 gender diverse young person surveyed had attempted to end their life. One in every two. A sobering statistic when other research looking at all young Australians shows one in every twelve had self-harmed.

Armed with this research, the community organisation TransFolk of WA have announced two new groups for trans and gender diverse people in Perth launching this month with The New Social Space providing a casual hangout space for Trans Adults, as well as separate social groups for trans men, trans women, non-binary people, trans young people, and parents.

And will also host a twice monthly support group for trans people who struggle with suicidal thoughts, DISCHARGED. Which will create an open dialogue in a peer support space with other like minded individuals for trans or gender diverse people who are struggle with suicidal thoughts.

Dean Arcuri speaks with Emery Wishart from TransFolk of WA.

See the two images below for lots more info on the two groups.

This segment of The Informer aired on JOY 94.9 on the 10th May 2018