Dealing with a relative who holds LGBQTIA+ phobic views has been an eye-opening experience for me. This encounter emerged when they learned about my identification as a girl through Instagram's recommendations. What makes this situation particularly perplexing is that the relative is involved in the medical field, specializing in neurology.
Although I have never sought medical attention from them, they initiated a series of unsolicited diagnoses. Here's a glimpse into their messages:
"I am trying to stay in peace here
I will not tolerate any nonsense of any sort
(Old Nickname) includes you"
(To tolerate me, I must be under their care/ medical care—a condition I am not in.)
"to 25 percent of patients diagnosed with schizophrenia can express symptoms of gender dysphoria throughout their lives"
(Can medical professionals outside of psychiatry offer such diagnoses?)
"First evaluate for schizhophrenia due to family history and take than thinking it is normal fashion
Some substd psychiatrist who doesnt know can blotch up somebody life"
(So, has gender dysphoria become trivial while schizophrenia remains significant? It's concerning how they labeled other doctors as sub-standard without firsthand knowledge.)
"(A person we know) was treated as schizho depression panic disorder autoimmune juvenile diabetes anti gad etcetc
It took 20 yrs for him to lead normal life
So dont rush in life
(Close Relative) had harmonal issues causing bad dreams"
(Both diagnoses they mentioned are inaccurate. One relative had a pituitary gland concern, and the other individual wasn't even treated by this phobic relative.)
"Rdocs looks at development since foetal stsge
Your parents were drug addicts n u were exposed in utero...foetal exposure has caused changes in neurotransmitter n behaviour"
(While they're right that my parents used drugs recreationally, someone using drugs doesn't imply their child will experience gender dysphoria, their reasoning is more a myth than medical theory.)
"U are prone for gadget addiction get bored etc...plz foxus on career now
(My Grandparents) are old n tired"
(Despite having been cleared by two psychiatrists of having any addiction, this relative's interference compelled me to take action to address the situation, which I'll discuss in a future post.)
"Gradiosity is also another symptom...calling urself prince neil
Thinking ur above any establishment or norms of society
(Old Nickname) plz listen to me..go slow......establish ur self and ur career first so u can survive"
(Their assertion that I'm seeking attention through grandiosity doesn't hold. I'm not defying societal norms to be contrarian; I'm simply embracing my identity. My transition is crucial for my mental well-being.)
"Lack of focus on task at hand ...getting bored easily
Lack of formation of one self identity
(Old Nickname) u can google and check....these are cluster of symptoms coz of your exposure as a foetus to alcohol, drugs, at risk genes
Your will power and our support will help u vaby"
(Yes, there are moments when my identity crisis affects my focus, and boredom arises from a lack of external engagement. Despite any prenatal exposure to alcohol or drugs, I've taken control of my journey.)
"(Phobic Relative and my grandparents) want u to study live a successful life thats all
Be happy"
(Studying is my aspiration, but without the burden of dysphoria. I'm preparing for law entrance exams and envision a future where my transition doesn't hinder my pursuits.)
In response to their messages, I've chosen to convey my thoughts through this simple quote
This situation underscores the complexities of navigating personal identity within the context of professional backgrounds. As I progress on my journey, I am committed to sharing my experiences and insights, striving to foster understanding and acceptance for those who may be facing similar challenges. Stay tuned for further reflections and updates.
