Living with gender dysphoria entails navigating a perpetual and emotionally taxing struggle with self-identity. To quote Marsha Johnson, the pioneer of gender rights movement,

“I don’t know what I am if I’m not a woman and it took me so long to accept that.”

Perhaps, Individuals with gender dysphoria often wrestle with feelings of isolation and disconnection from their internal and external world. The relentless incongruence between their internal sense of self and societal expectations can result in a constant emotional battle. This struggle can manifest as anxiety, depression, or a persistent sense of not fitting in, leaving an indelible mark on their mental health. 

One of the most poignant emotional challenges faced by individuals with gender dysphoria is the pervasive experience of rejection which is multifaceted, including the discrimination and prejudice they encounter from others, the disapproval they face from their own families, and perhaps most significantly, the inner struggle to fully accept their gender identity. The weight of societal biases, discrimination, and a lack of understanding can lead to profound feelings of isolation, sadness, and even self-harm. Therefore, their self esteem and self worth takes a hit, building onto their rejection of self. In her memoir titled ‘Redefining Realness: My Path to Womanhood, Identity, Love & So Much More’ (2014), which became a New York bestseller, Janet Mock talks about her struggle with gender dysphoria stating that,

 “When I was younger, I wish I would have been told more often that I was right and nothing was wrong with me, that I was deserving of everything this world has to offer, and that my visions for my future were worthy of pursuit.”

In addition to such detrimental struggles, the simple act of looking into a mirror can become a profound emotional experience for those with gender dysphoria. The reflection they see may not align with the person they know themselves to be. This incongruity can evoke intense discomfort and dissatisfaction, casting a shadow of emotional distress over their daily lives. It's akin to seeing a stranger staring back at them from the glass, a reminder of the huge dissonance between their perceived self and the body they inhabit.

Furthermore, gender-affirming surgeries represent a pivotal moment in the lives of many individuals with gender dysphoria. The decision to pursue such procedures is deeply personal and complex. While these surgeries can be liberating, offering a path to physical alignment with their true gender identity, they are also emotionally & financially charged experiences. The process involves physical transformation. However, alongside the joy of aligning their physical self with their gender identity, individuals may struggle with the emotional adjustment to these changes. There's a sense of triumph, but also a period of adaptation and emotional processing.

Conversely, some individuals with gender dysphoria opt not to undergo gender-affirming surgery, for various reasons, such as financial constraints or personal preferences. For them, the experience of gender dysphoria persists, creating ongoing emotional distress. This group faces unique challenges as they seek alternative ways to cope with their dysphoria, often relying on non-surgical gender-affirming methods, such as hormone therapy or changing their presentation.

In conclusion, the emotional toll of external and internal rejection is immense, and it highlights the importance of fostering an inclusive and empathetic society. It is crucial to recognize the emotional rollercoaster experienced by those with gender dysphoria daily. To truly understand the impact on their mental and emotional health, we must appreciate the multifaceted nature of their struggles, acknowledging the ongoing battles, the complex relationship with their own reflection, the emotional nuances of surgeries and non-surgical interventions, and the profound impact of societal and self-rejection.  Ultimately, our collective empathy and acceptance are essential in promoting the mental well-being of individuals with gender dysphoria, nurturing a world where everyone is free to express their true selves without fear of rejection or discrimination.