Trans-101
What does "transgender" mean?
"Transgender: denoting or relating to a person whose gender identity does not correspond with the sex registered for them at birth." via Oxford Essentially, to be transgender, or trans for short, you do not identify with the gender you were assigned as a baby. Trans is also an umbrella term that can include nonbinary identities.
What does "nonbinary" mean?
"Nonbinary: denoting, having, or relating to a gender identity that does not conform to traditional binary beliefs about gender, which indicate that all individuals are exclusively either male or female." via Oxford Being nonbinary is as diverse as the human experience. Honestly, you're better off reading some posts by nonbinary people to get a better idea of what it really is!
How do I know if I'm trans?
For better or for worse, no one can answer that question except for you. We urge you to take a look through our website and maybe even peek at the forums. You may find people you have more in common with than you thought possible.
What is "transitioning"?
Transitioning is a process, sometimes with a finite goal and sometimes not, that denotes a person as having shifted from one gender experience to another. There are a multitude of ways to transition. Some are visible, some are not. Some are medical, some are not. The only constant is that transitioning of any kind is not required to be trans - it is all optional.
What kinds of transitioning exist?
There are countless ways one might transition, but the three main categories are medically, legally, and socially. Medical transition includes things like surgeries and hormones. Legal transition might be changing your name or gender marker on legal documents. Social is the most amorphous, but generally includes changing clothes, hair, and other outward presentation attributes.
What if I change my mind?
Questioning one's gender sometimes results in the answer you thought you'd get, and sometimes it's a surprise. The important part is the journey (and not taking away from anyone else's journey). Regardless, do not trick yourself into thinking you "have" to be one way or another to do anything on this site. If you are making a safe decision for your own happiness and well-being, do it!
What if I'm not trans 'enough'?
No such thing. It seems simple, but it's true. There is no such thing as too trans or not trans enough.
Where should I start?
Wherever you want to! We have resources for everything from changing your wardrobe to changing your name. You can start with baby steps or jump right in - it is ultimately your decision. Remember to be safe and keep your happiness as your goal. You'll end up where you need to be, sooner or later.
I'm scared. Where can I get support?
Right here! We recommend looking through the forums first. We're a community first and foremost, after all. If you need immediate assistance, please check out PFLAG's list of LGBT+ support hotlines at https://pflag.org/hotlines.