A way to "test the water?"

[Secret Drawer]

I wonder if there is anything that we could try (safely and naturally) that would emulate the effects of HRT on anxiety, that lifelong blanket of stress and frustration that many of us encounter? I will fight this idea of transitioning and try anything (non damaging to my overall health) to alleviate these frustrating symtoms of GD.
I, like many here, just wish to be normal, even if that would mean be a normal CDer. Yet I find myself on the opposite side of the ship from most of the posters on the MTF forum... I don't have a sexual element in my CDing, I don't understand how one can simply stop for the sake of an SO or whatever other reason, How is it selfish (What the H, I never signed up for this!?)
Anyhow... Does anyone know of a way to alleviate GD based anxiety other than hormones? Like some sort of vitamins or ? Not that I figure anything will completely eliminate or rid me of them, just a way to relieve it a bit or even to see if HRT would possibly be sensible by trying something less life altering first?
[I understand I asked the question twice but I sometimes am not clear in my posts, and I want to be very clear here!]

[Aimee20]

There isn't really anything that can replicate hrt in any way. The calming effects come from reducing testosterone and increasing estrogen, which no vitamin can really do. Estrogen can be increased through certain herbal supplements but the amount is very negligible and your body would just increase the T to compensate.
Your best bet is really going to be to seek out the help from a qualified therapist. And please please please don't self medicate, hrt meds can be very dangerous.

[Aprilrain]

HRT is pretty safe and takes months to really do anything permanent. Have yo Talked to a therapist about your feelings?

[GabbiSophia]

If there is then i have not found it or i have missed it. I have spent tons of hours looking and reading. Science just hasn't progress enough to understand the chemistry of the brain for this yet. There are studies being done but nothing yet. If you find something share it up. Herbals are dangerous as hell as the body chemistry is crazy complicated. This is at least what i have found.

[Donna Joanne]

Secret Drawer,

Everyone has given you excellent advice. You need to speak with a therapist who is trained in Gender Dysphoria, and let them help you see if HRT may be the path for you. Avoid self diagnosing and self medicating, and allow the professionals to do their jobs.

[kimdl93]

I'm afraid this is the wrong place to seek such advice. None of us can say whether there is or isn't an alternate course of treatment for the anxiety you suffer, any more than we can suggest OTC or prescription alternatives to HRT. Better see a doctor.

[I Am Paula]

First off. HRT can be a very effective diagnostic tool. You CAN try it, and in the months before permanent change, the HRT will tell you if it is right for you. Also, many people use low dose HRT for years without transitioning, if it keeps the demon GD at bay. Talk to your therapist about it. I understand your desire to be normal, and I think many of us have the same wish, but you may just have to find your new comfort level, and create a new normal.

Treating GD without hormones. Most Drs. on hearing about your GD, seem to think that antidepressants are the miracle cure. They may work for you, but I think psychotropic drugs should be a last resort, not a first line of action. I am NOT a Dr. but a lot of TS girls I know were given antidepressants first, and ended up very mellow, and suffering from GD. A very unhappy combination.

From about 14 years old, to when I was forced to transition at 54 (forced as in, I had no choice to keep on living) I used cross dressing as my GD therapy, but I found it a band aid solution at best. Presenting female got me thru' one more day, many times over, but it was just a stop gap measure, and heavy doses of denial were used to fill in the cracks. In retrospect, I lived (lived?) way too long with a condition that has proven therapy, because I was scared of my own condition, and the GD will mess with your head in many ways if you let it.

GD is too debilitating a disease to let run amok. You need a good therapist, and a good Dr. and maybe you can find a solution that fits your needs.

[Frances]

This thread is quite vague. I don't know what element is frustrating or giving you anxiety in a way that's hard to bear, but without wanting to transition. To answer your exact question, you could try Propecia (it has anti-androgenic effets). I took phytoestrogens for a long time along with Propecia, I thought they did something, but my blood tests said otherwise.
Honestly though, you talk about emotional states, not a dissatisfaction with your physical body and sex. Please consult with a therapist.

[Nigella]

This thread is done. There is no way we allow the discussion of any OTC remedies for any ailment. The only advice you should take on board, and has been offered is seek help from a professional.