17/02/2010
The American Psychiatric Association (APA) released on Feb 10th 2010 a draft version of the Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders V (DSM) .[1]
TGEU [2] observes with great concern that trans identities are still pathologized and considered a mental health condition.
Given its strong implications on the living of trans people in Europe and other parts of the world, it should take into account the conclusions of the Human Rights Commissioner of the Council of Europe: “From a human rights and health care perspective no mental disorder needs to be diagnosed in order to give access to treatment for a condition in need of medical care.” “Alternative classifications should be explored in close consultation with transgender persons and their organisations.” [3]
The APA needs to safeguard the human rights of trans people in the current revision of the DSM IV.
No national or international health institution or association of health professionals shall be able to render transgender identities as mental health disorders.
TGEU once again appeals to the APA to consult with transgender organizations and to increase the transparency of the revision process of the DSM V.
END
Contact: office@tgeu.org
[1]
http://www.dsm5.org/ProposedRevisions/Pages/SexualandGenderIdentityDisorders.aspx
[1] TransGender Europe –TGEU is an European Umbrella organization working towards the full equality of all trans people in Europe registered under Austrian law as NGO. More information on TGEU can be obtained on: www.tgeu.org.
[1] Issue Paper “Human Rights and Human Rights“ by Thomas Hammarberg, Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights www.commissioner.coe.int from July 2009