What Is Avoidant Coping

In this section, we will talk about ways to deal with gender dysphoria by using avoidant coping strategies. Avoidance can be a helpful tool for really strong peaks of gender dysphoria. However, there are times when avoidance can hold us back or prevent us from living out our fullest lives and our values. It’s important to strike a balance and be aware of when avoidance is helpful and when it’s holding us back.

Here are some general rules to follow when using avoidance strategies:

1. If you start to feel more alone or disconnected from friends you may be using avoidance strategies too often.
2. Avoiding problems is okay for a short time, but it’s better to also incorporate mindful awareness and action coping skills.
3. It is always okay to use avoidance in response to anti-trans or transphobic discrimination, violence, or stigma.
4. At first, you might use avoidance the most to cope with gender dysphoria, but it’s good to practice the other strategies too.
5. There’s no perfect way to handle everything, but do not always choose avoidance as the only option. Try a mix of ways to feel better and stay mindful. Notice for yourself which strategies are most helpful for you.

Remember to start mindful, use action, avoid if necessary.

There are five different categories of avoidant coping strategies that trans and nonbinary folks have described using to cope with their gender dysphoria.