Mental Health of Transgender Individuals in Pakistan: An Analytical Study of Risk Factors, Prevalence, and Support Systems

Abstract

Transgender individuals in Pakistan face significant mental health challenges stemming from deep-rooted social stigma, marginalization, and systemic neglect. This analytical study explored the prevalence of mental health disorders, identified major risk factors, and evaluated the effectiveness of existing support systems available to transgender communities in Pakistan. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, including surveys and interviews conducted with 200 transgender individuals across urban and rural settings in Punjab, Pakistan, Drawing on recent empirical research and qualitative insights, the study reveals alarmingly high rates of depression, anxiety, stress and suicidal ideation among transgender individuals, with experiences of discrimination and marginalization, internalized Trans-phobia, identity struggles and barriers to healthcare access etc. emerging as key contributing factors. The study underscores the urgent need for inclusive mental health policies, gender-sensitive healthcare training, and sustained social support to protect and empower this vulnerable population.