Despite the introduction of groundbreaking gender identity law last summer, a new study shows that 40 percent of transgender people in Ireland have attempted suicide at least once.

The survey findings were released in conjunction with the 1st National Transgender Healthcare Conference held yesterday. The conference was hosted by the state-funded Health Service Executive (HSE) and Transgender Equality Network Ireland (TENI).

Respondents to TENI's Speaking From the Margins: Trans Mental Health and Wellbeing in Ireland study also reported common experiences of stress (83%), depression (82%) and anxiety (73%) were common among trans Irish men and women.

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Additionally, it was found that 90% of HSE professionals said they had not had any training on trans issues while 74% of respondents indicated that they would like training in this area.

Dr Philip Crowley, National Direction of the HSE's Quality Improvement Division, said:

“Transgender people are part of Irish society and it is essential that our services address their needs. To do this, the HSE is in the process of developing services and models of care which will involve building capacity at national and local levels.”

TENI Health and Education Manager Vanessa Lacey added that the conference “is an incredibly positive step” towards “holistic, comprehensive health care services for trans people.”

Watch TENI's “Gender Recognition Matters” video below.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PK00GSTYhSQ