Healthcare access and mental health among transgender and gender diverse university students

Introduction: This study aims to investigate the mental health challenges and healthcare inaccessibility faced by transgender and gender diverse students. Methods: A survey was administered to 121 gender-minority university students. We measured gender-based discrimination across various healthcare domains and its association with mental health outcomes using ordinal logistic regression. Results: Nonbinary students were more likely to rate their mental health as “poor” than their trans feminine peers and trans masculine peers. Experiences of gender-based discrimination when seeking healthcare resulted in increased odds of rating their mental health as “poor,” and suicidal ideation compared to those who did not experience discrimination. Students who did not try to access care had increased odds of suicidal ideation, self-harm, and worse mental health. Discussion: Gender-based discrimination and healthcare access significantly impact mental health, and nonbinary students are particularly vulnerable. The findings emphasize the need for affirmative and inclusive healthcare practices across all healthcare domains.