Are you experiencing emotional fluctuations during hormone replacement therapy (HRT)? Are you unable to make sense of these changes and sudden surges?

Trans women’s unique and courageous journey of transformation involves multiple stages. One of these stages is the HRT process. This is an extremely important step for them to feel more peaceful and whole in their bodies. This inspiring and innovative journey is a multi-faceted transformation process, not only physically, but also emotionally and psychologically. In this article, we will understand the emotional changes that can occur during hormone therapy and how you can cope with these feelings.

1. Increased Emotional Sensitivity and Reactions

With the start of HRT, many trans women feel that their emotions and emotional reactions are increasing. Intensified emotionality is normal for everyone at times and is part of being human.

Sometimes there may be crying for no reason, and in some cases this crying can also lead to emotional release. Because this kind of release is an emotional need. Even the funniest scenes in movies can make you cry, giving extra meaning to everyday and even ordinary events and leading you to deep thoughts. The reason for this sweet and sympathetic, but sometimes challenging situation is that hormones such as estrogen and anti-androgen affect the brain and change the emotional state.

Ways to Cope:

• When this happens, recognize the situation you are in and give yourself space for these feelings: “Being sensitive is not a weakness or a deficiency, it is a depth.”
• Writing, drawing, self-consciously talking to yourself or recording your feelings can help you to understand the situation and take control of your emotions.
• Connecting with people who are going through the same feelings and similar experiences reinforces your self-compassion and makes you feel safe. Being understood is a human need.

2. Confusion of Identity and Self

During this period you may often find yourself asking questions like “Who am I?”. Change takes time and acceptance takes time. The process of change and transformation can sometimes be confusing

Ways to Cope:

• Don’t be hard on yourself and be patient with yourself. The body and mind are in a new state of harmony and this is very valuable.
• Make sense of the transformation within yourself first through meditation, journaling, therapy and other ways that support psychological strength.
• It is normal to feel uncertain, lost and fuzzy at times. Remember that all this is temporary.

3. Intensification of Anxiety and Worry

The doors to a new life are opening and this important milestone can be as worrying as it is exciting. Feeling anxious and worried at this point can lead to thoughts such as “What if I don’t feel the way I want to feel?” and “What will others think?”. Sometimes you may feel lost and overwhelmed by these questions.

Ways to Cope:

• Everyone’s experience of transition is unique and hormone therapy works differently for everyone; taking your time and trusting the rhythm of your body can prevent emotions from getting out of control.
• Joining communities that understand what your transition means and normalize emotions can support a sense of belonging. Communities such as online support groups can be an encouraging way forward.
• If necessary, seeking support from a professional therapist who is familiar with the experiences of trans women can help you navigate this process in the most comfortable way.

4. Real Happiness and An Intense Sense of Hope

These feelings feel better than usual. This means that the process is not only challenging. Many trans women say that over time they make peace with their reflection in the mirror and feel more real and integrated. This unique and wonderful feeling is the first step towards freedom and being real.

Embrace these moments and celebrate them to your heart’s content! Remind yourself of even small victories. These moments are your most special moments. Turn these moments into a special memory…whether with a selfie or a favorite song!

Recognize, Accept and Own Your Feelings about the Process

As you change, so does your soul. Remember that this is a transformation from the inside out. It is almost impossible not to feel emotions in such a process. Starting hormone therapy is one of the bravest decisions for trans women.

Changes in the inner world belong to people as much as the transformation in the body. While everyone witnesses the physical change in this brave journey, the spiritual change can be overlooked. However, it is a healthy step to realize that this emotional and spiritual change is the beginning and part of the process. It is necessary to accept that the deepest change is within.
You are not only transforming, you are also returning to yourself.

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