Which treatment has been shown to decrease major depressive disorder in transgender individuals?

Gender-affirming treatment has been shown to significantly improve mental health outcomes, including reducing symptoms of major depressive disorder, in transgender individuals. This type of treatment includes a range of medical and psychological interventions aimed at aligning an individual's physical characteristics and social identity with their gender identity.

Research indicates that individuals undergoing gender-affirming therapies, which may include hormone replacement therapy and surgical interventions, often report improvements in their overall well-being, quality of life, and mental health. This positive impact is attributed to the reduction of gender dysphoria and the affirmation of one's identity, which can alleviate feelings of distress and depression that are commonly experienced by transgender individuals before receiving appropriate care.

In comparison, while other treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy, SSRIs, and electroconvulsive therapy are effective for treating depression in general, they do not specifically address the underlying issues related to gender identity distress. Therefore, gender-affirming treatment stands out as the most effective approach for this population, directly targeting the core concerns related to gender identity and promoting better mental health outcomes.