Published 2026-02-15
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Abstract
Background:The global transformation of gender identity laws has generated profound implications for transgender populations, particularly in relation to mental health outcomes. While existing scholarship frequently highlights stigma, discrimination, and minority stress, the role of legal frameworks as structural determinants of psychological well-being remains insufficiently synthesised. This study aims to systematically examine the impact of gender identity laws on transgender mental health within a global research landscape. Results: Findings reveal a growing yet geographically concentrated body of research, dominated by the United States and Western institutions. Evidence consistently indicates that restrictive or ambiguous legal environments exacerbate depression, anxiety, and suicidality, whereas affirming policies and a sense of community belonging act as protective factors. Transgender mental health is influenced by individual psychological factors, social pressures, structural determinants, access to affirming health services, and legal frameworks, with risks and protective factors interacting across personal, social, and systemic levels. Conclusion: Gender identity laws function as structural determinants of transgender mental health. Future interdisciplinary research integrating legal analysis and public health perspectives is urgently needed, particularly in underrepresented regions.