03-07-2012, 02:24 AM
I think the issue of determining mental health is complex due to individual variances. While there are standards set for defining optimal physical health, I have not heard of such precise standards used to determine optimal mental health. True, brain scans can indicate abnormalities in the brain. However, I don't think such scans can reveal whether a person is feeling happy or sad like tests can be conducted to ascertain whether a patient has a healthy or weak heart.
My primary concern with labeling sexuality, gender identity or anything else as mentally ill is the danger intolerant individuals will use this as leverage to exert socio-political control over those they consider to be deviant. I think this is a separate issue of whether homosexuals, transgender, etc, consider themselves as mentally ill. I think when the behavior or emotion (i.e.) gender dysphoria, becomes problematic to the point it continually interferes or impairs the quality of daily life is when it can be regarded as a mental disorder. This isn't a black and white definition you're asking for, but I think it's a good standard to assess whether someone really needs help or not.
If homosexuality is a mental illness because gay people are unable to reproduce, would the same standard apply to those who voluntarily choose to be celibate or heterosexual couples who can have children but decide not to?
Yes, pm has made changes with my mental state but not in the area of personal judgment.
I don't think anyone who has gender dysphoria should feel that full transition is the only solution. I don't think you're a fantasist because you don't want to fully transition. I think individuals have all sorts of reasons for choosing or not choosing to fully transition. In my opinion it's a very personal decision.
I'm not offended by you sharing your thoughts Bryony.
My primary concern with labeling sexuality, gender identity or anything else as mentally ill is the danger intolerant individuals will use this as leverage to exert socio-political control over those they consider to be deviant. I think this is a separate issue of whether homosexuals, transgender, etc, consider themselves as mentally ill. I think when the behavior or emotion (i.e.) gender dysphoria, becomes problematic to the point it continually interferes or impairs the quality of daily life is when it can be regarded as a mental disorder. This isn't a black and white definition you're asking for, but I think it's a good standard to assess whether someone really needs help or not.
If homosexuality is a mental illness because gay people are unable to reproduce, would the same standard apply to those who voluntarily choose to be celibate or heterosexual couples who can have children but decide not to?
Yes, pm has made changes with my mental state but not in the area of personal judgment.
I don't think anyone who has gender dysphoria should feel that full transition is the only solution. I don't think you're a fantasist because you don't want to fully transition. I think individuals have all sorts of reasons for choosing or not choosing to fully transition. In my opinion it's a very personal decision.
I'm not offended by you sharing your thoughts Bryony.