Survey evaluation of the role of social media and social support for transgender, non-binary and intersex people (Preprint)

BACKGROUND Transgender and gender diverse (TGD) individuals face health disparities linked to social determinants, including lack of support. OBJECTIVE This study evaluated social media use and social support among TGD patients at a transgender clinic. METHODS A survey assessing social media use, social support, and demographics was emailed to patients at a tertiary care TGD clinic. RESULTS Of 48 respondents (20% response rate), 50% identified as transfeminine, 29% as transmasculine, and 8% as non-binary. Nearly 70% reported monthly transphobia; 35% reported it weekly. Primary support came from significant others or friends (49%), with 13% citing online friends. Social media was primarily used to connect with queer/TGD communities, mainly via Discord, Reddit, and Instagram. Over half had never attended a gender-related support group, though 60% expressed interest. CONCLUSIONS TGD individuals experience frequent transphobia and seek social support from personal and online connections. Many are open to support groups, suggesting a potential avenue to improve care