How do I make dysphoria. stop doing that?

[whatishappening]

There has been a crap ton of dysphoria in my brain today. I feel really frustrated and disgusted with my body, and REALLY wish it was different and reflected my actual gender, but there’s not really anything I can do about it. How can I make this not as bad?

[Davie]

1 hour ago, whatishappening said:

There has been a crap ton of dysphoria in my brain today. I feel really frustrated and disgusted with my body, and REALLY wish it was different and reflected my actual gender, but there’s not really anything I can do about it. How can I make this not as bad?

Dear whatishappening. Just know that dysphoria is part of the process to gaining euphoria and acceptance of the changes you want. It will happen. It will take time. Some days are OK. Some days are not so much. Just because a road has bumps, doesn't mean it won't take you there. You just shared how you felt with others who care--that's always progress. Welcome to the road. Welcome home.

Hugs,

Davie

[Jackie C.]

I find that living authentically helps. Dressing as my actual gender helped too. Even with the giant pile of artistry and misdirection that went with it. For me it was fake breasts, butt padding, wig (I have alopecia universalis so at least I didn't have to shave anything), etc... For you it's going to be something like: Binder, boxy boy clothes and maybe a packer (sweat socks will do in a pinch I'm told). 

 

It doesn't make it all go away, but it helps.

 

Other remedies include losing yourself in something else. Video games where you have a big, ultra-manly avatar was a big one for me (well, I made them small and cute, but you get the idea). Also tabletop games (yes I'm a dork) where my character was my actual gender helped. Painting, music, what have you are also good outlets. I think everybody on the site has SOME creative thing they do that stems from beating back the dysphoria with a stick.

 

Being with friends, especially if they're affirming, helps too.

 

Basically, refocus yourself on the good stuff or fake it until you make it.

 

Hugs!

[Gabriel]

Hey @whatishappening, I agree with Davie and Jackie. 

For me, taking small steps to get closer to my GI is crucial. They may be small, but they are almost continuous, so I know I'm always working to be who I am and express myself. Some days it's coming out to someone new, other days being aware how my old patterns are still in place and realising what would feel right in the same situation. Other days is looking for clothes styles that I like, and from time to time buying something (not doing that much because I just began T and I don't know how my body will change, if much or not).
And then, losing myself in books and connecting with supportive people.

It doesn't go away, but taking steps to get closer to myself helps. 

For me, being grateful for what my body has allowed me to do all this years makes a difference too.