Trans Teens Struggle with Hormonal Imbalances and Mental Health Issues Amid Pandemic

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to take a toll on the mental health of young people, Sage’s experience highlights the complex challenges faced by transgender teens. The nonbinary high school student was forced to stop taking testosterone therapy after their hospital closed its doors due to the pandemic. Sage’s decision to pause their hormone treatment was made necessary by a relatively rare hormonal disorder called premature luteinizing ovarian syndrome (PMOS), which caused sudden and rapid changes in their body, including excessive hair growth and irregular periods. The isolation and confinement of the pandemic only exacerbated these feelings, leaving Sage with increased scrutiny from themselves as they struggled to cope. Initially prescribed puberty blockers by their doctor, Sage’s treatment was not explicitly intended for trans-related reasons but rather to alleviate symptoms of PMOS. However, as the pandemic raged on, Sage found themselves at a crossroads, forced to reevaluate their approach to managing their health and well-being in a world that seemed to be spinning out of control. The pandemic has had far-reaching consequences for many young people, including those who are trans or nonbinary. As Sage’s story illustrates, the absence of access to healthcare services and support can have devastating effects on mental health and overall well-being. It is essential that we prioritize the needs of these individuals, providing them with the resources and care they require to navigate this critical phase in their lives.