Models of care for gender dysphoria in young persons: how Psychiatry lost and is finding its voice

Globally, models of care for young persons with gender dysphoria differ across jurisdictions. Historically, developed countries have utilised the medical approach. More recently, broader models that place a greater emphasis on psychological interventions are emerging. This piece utilizes the Australian experience to compare models of care for gender dysphoria. Reflecting on the relative passivity of Psychiatry to date, historical reasons for this silence are explored. As relative experts in relationship dynamics and key bearers of the history of sexual health diagnoses, it is proposed that Psychiatrists have both the requisite skills and responsibility to share reflective lessons with other medical specialties in this space. Only by doing so may they provide appropriate care and treatment for young persons suffering mental distress due to gender incongruence.