Atlas, Sweden (he/they)

“You will find a community, a family who accepts you."

Was there a definitive moment you realized you were trans? How old were you?

I never understood why I wasn't allowed to play with the boys when I was little, since i didnt feel any different from them. As time went on and as I went through puberty I was still feeling very genderless but was insanely uncomfortable with the changes. I really felt like I want to live as a man, and that's when I realised that I could. And so I did.

How soon after did you start to make changes? What were these changes?

I cut my hair of when I was 14 and stopped wearing clothes that made me uncomfortable. I got a binder when I came out to my friends when I was 17 and started using he/they pronounce. But mainly he/him.

Have these changes started to make you feel more comfortable in your life and body?

Absolutely. I don't feel as disconnected to my body as I did before.

What would you tell your younger self? Would you do anything differently?

You'll get to play with the boys eventually. You're closest friends are all guys and they accept and love you just as you are. You will find a community, a family who accepts you.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

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Have the gender-affirming steps you’ve taken impacted your overall happiness and sense of well-being?

Yes.