4Effects of Cissexism on Physical Health
Direct Effects and Violence
Cissexism may also lead to some problems with physical health. These include:
– Increased levels of cortisol, which may impact both psychological and physical health
– Higher risk of cardiovascular problems, such as heart attack or stroke
– An effect on diastolic blood pressure
In the long run, chronic stress may result in substance abuse, depression, anxiety, diabetes, high blood pressure, and suicidality. [5]
Violence related to cissexism tend to come from family members or friends of the victims. These individuals or communities do not accept the existence of nonbinary genders or transgenders. Physical confrontations and violence may be part of this rejection. For instance, people may cut off financial support to their children, refuse access to the house, deny the right to have medical procedures, or do not want to use gender-affirming words. This may lead to depression, reduced self-esteem, feelings of isolation, and other mental problems. [6]
