Prompt initiation of testosterone therapy significantly reduces depression and suicidality in transgender adults, shows a first-of-its-kind Australian study.

Melbourne doctors compared mental health outcomes in 64 patients who had either immediate access to gender-affirming testosterone or standard care with a three-month delay. 

Overall, the team reported a clinically significant decrease in gender dysphoria and depression scores in those given hormone therapy, as well as a halving in the number of participants with suicidal ideation — even before the development of masculine physical traits.

Senior author and endocrinologist Associate Professor Ada Cheung said their findings underscored the benefits of early intervention in transgender care.