Trans, Genderqueer, Non-Binary and Gender Non-Conforming Peoples Experiences With Mental Health Care in Ontario

In this project, I use narrative interviewing and digital storytelling methodologies to understand the experiences of transgender and gender diverse people with the mental health care system in Ontario, as well as their experiences in regard to related health and social policies. My objective is to understand whether the stated goal of the mental health policy in force at the time data was collected—to promote well-being for all Ontarians, including members of groups facing social exclusion—was achieved for members of these communities. I interpret interview and digital story data through the lenses of critical disability studies, disability justice, mad studies, social determinants of health research, feminist new materialism and intersectionality to create a critical analysis of the neoliberal trajectory of mental health-related policy in Ontario. While participants reported some positive and helpful experiences with the mental health care system, many found it to be inaccessible, culturally unsafe, or even harmful. While participants came into contact with mental health care for a wide range of reasons, many discussed difficulties and harms resulting from the requirement to navigate around gatekeepers in the mental health professions to access gender confirming medical treatment. Participants also reported problems regarding other dimensions of the social determinants of mental health, including income, employment, housing and social inclusion and exclusion. I conclude the project with a discussion of participants' perspectives on the changes needed to support the well-being of the trans and gender diverse communities, arguing for the promotion of cultural safety and improved access to health care, as well as for meaningful changes in regard to the social determinants of mental health.