Supporting Youths with Gender Dysphoria

Dr Wan Rizal asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health what is the Government's approach to support youths with gender dysphoria.

Mr Ong Ye Kung: Gender Dysphoria is a recognised clinical condition that has to be diagnosed by a psychiatrist based on established diagnostic criteria for children and adolescents.

Youths experiencing gender dysphoria have complex medical needs. Our intervention approach is based on ensuring appropriate professional standards and evidence-based care.

Hence, under the Ministry of Health's (MOH's) Treatment Guidelines, children and adolescents with gender dysphoria have to be cared for by a multidisciplinary team to ensure holistic and safe medical care. Psychological support should be the first line of treatment, and hormonal and surgical treatment should not be offered for children and adolescents under 18 years old. For adolescents aged 18 to 20 years old, hormonal therapy, excluding pubertal suppression, may only be offered in exceptional circumstances, with clear evidence of benefit, multidisciplinary team agreement and informed consent from the adolescent and their parents.

MOH, the Ministry of Social and Family Development and the Ministry of Education had also refreshed the Counselling Guidelines, following consultation with local sector professionals. The Counselling Guidelines recommends focusing on youths' overall adjustment and well-being by addressing presenting issues, such as mental health risks or family and peer interactions. To support youths in clarifying issues of sexuality and identity development, therapists should focus on providing non-judgmental and objective care and avoid influencing youths or their families towards a pre-determined outcome.