This week: an in-depth interview with Dr. Tyler Black, a Canadian child psychiatrist and suicidologist. Dr. Black offers a compassionate and evidence-informed perspective on gender-affirming care, particularly for youth. He explains that while gender-affirming care is often framed as controversial, it is grounded in clinical best practices that prioritize reducing a child’s distress—not rushing toward irreversible interventions. He emphasizes that puberty blockers are a pause, not a push toward transition, and are used thoughtfully in coordination with families and medical professionals.Dr. Black also challenges the idea that medical transition is being recklessly promoted. He stresses that what protects trans kids most from suicidality is not any specific medical treatment, but consistent support, affirmation, and being genuinely supported by family and community.The conversation critiques the simplistic narrative that “gender-affirming care saves lives,” not because it’s untrue, but because it distracts from the real complexity. Dr. Black explains that suicide prevention isn’t just about treatment—it’s about ensuring kids feel safe, loved, and accepted, which dramatically reduces risk regardless of medical choices.The episode closes with reflections on empathy, parental fear, and the cultural shifts affecting how trans youth understand and express themselves. All three voices—Laura, Jo, and Dr. Black—emphasize the value of listening, rejecting ideological extremes, and supporting nuanced approaches to trans care and identity.
Follow on X: Jo Ellis - @JoEllisReally | Laura T - @laura_tee_mdgi | Dr. Tyler Black @TylerBlack32
