Statement from NASW-MI and Behavioral Health Professionals Opposing the HHS Report on GAC

Statement from NASW-Michigan and Behavioral Health Professionals Opposing the HHS Report on Gender-Affirming Care

The National Association of Social Workers – Michigan Chapter (NASW-MI), along with behavioral health professionals across the state, strongly opposes the recent report released by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) on May 1, 2025. This 409-page document challenges the established standards of care for transgender youth and advocates for conversion therapy and detransitioning over comprehensive gender-affirming medical care.

As professionals dedicated to the well-being of all individuals, we affirm that gender-affirming care is evidence-based, life-saving, and essential for the mental health of transgender and gender-diverse youth. The HHS report's recommendations contradict the consensus of major medical organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Psychiatric Association, which recognize gender-affirming treatments as critical components of care.

Research consistently demonstrates that gender-affirming care, including puberty blockers and hormone therapy, significantly reduces rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidality among transgender and gender-diverse youth. Conversely, denying access to such care exacerbates mental health disparities and places vulnerable youth at increased risk.

The HHS report's emphasis on “behavioral therapy”, while dismissing medical interventions, raises concerns about the potential resurgence of discredited practices akin to conversion therapy, which have been shown to inflict harm on young people, including elevated rates of suicidal ideation.

Furthermore, the report's lack of transparency regarding its authorship and peer review process undermines its credibility and suggests a politicization of medical science that is detrimental to public trust and the health of transgender individuals.

NASW-MI remains committed to advocating for policies and practices that uphold the dignity, autonomy, and health of all individuals. We call upon policymakers, healthcare providers, and the broader community to reject the HHS report's recommendations and to support evidence-based, affirming care for transgender youth.