How to Find Support in a Red State as a Trans Person
Whether you’re making a move soon or you’ve been living in the same place for a while, there’s often an underlying fear and sense of discouragement when it comes to living in a red state as a trans person.
You might feel like you can’t open up or truly be yourself. You might assume you’ll never find support or a community you can lean on. Maybe you’re even worried about discrimination.
While it’s true that red states aren’t typically as open and supportive as their blue counterparts, you don’t have to live your life in fear while in your conservative location. Instead, look for “blue dots” within your state, and you’re likely to find your tribe.
Let’s dig a little deeper into how you can find support in a red state as a trans individual.
Do Your Research
If you’re reading this piece, you’re likely already looking into what you can do to feel safe and comfortable in a red state. That’s a great way to start.
Do your research when it comes to safe spaces in the area. Are there any LGBTQIA+ advocacy groups or organizations? They could end up being a major resource for you, not only when it comes to personal support but also important information.
One of the best ways to protect yourself and achieve peace of mind is to find medical providers in the area that you can trust. Some professionals will advertise themselves as LGBTQIA+-friendly. If they publicly support the trans community, they’re likely also more informed about what you might need to feel safe and comfortable and can help with things like HRT.
Lean On Your Support System
Again, almost every red state is likely to have “dots” of blue. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or even unsafe, lean on your existing support system. At first, that’s likely to consist of people back home or friends you’ve had for a long time.
But, don’t be afraid to find people in your state to serve as a support system, too. Chances are, there are some trans individuals who are going through the same emotions and worries as you.
Online forums are a great place to start. Or, search events in your community or nearby. Sometimes, you might have to be willing to travel an hour or two to get to the nearest blue area, but it’s well worth it to find your people and feel supported. Building your network in a new place can be one of the most empowering ways to feel at home.
Practice Self-Care
It’s easy to forget about your basic needs when you’re stressed and overwhelmed. Make sure you’re not avoiding self-care, even when you’re lacking support.
If you don’t take care of yourself, your health could start to deteriorate, especially if you’re not paying close enough attention to your HRT or other basic medical needs.
Your mental health could also become a problem if you let the idea of living in a red state consume you.
Self-care looks different for everyone, so find what works for you. Enjoy daily physical activity, practice mindfulness or meditation, and consider writing in a journal every day to give yourself an outlet for your feelings.
Talk to Someone
It’s important to have people in your corner when you’re a trans person in a red state. Ideally, that includes other members of the trans community. They’re out there, though it might take a bit of digging to find them, so don’t be afraid to speak up.
It’s just as essential to have mental health support and find a therapist you can trust with your needs. If you’re feeling lost, overwhelmed, or even scared about your living situation, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You’re not alone, and I pride myself on making sure my clients know they have a safe and comfortable space here to express who they are and what they’re feeling.
Learn more about LGBTQ+ Therapy.
