Navigating Identity: Thriving As Non-Binary In A Cis-Normative Workplace
Being non-binary in a cis-normative workplace presents unique challenges, often requiring resilience, advocacy, and understanding from both non-binary individuals and their employers. As a Milwaukee anxiety therapist and online virtual psychotherapist throughout Wisconsin and Colorado, I have closely worked with non-binary clients, witnessing their specific challenges in navigating gender identity within professional settings and its impact on their mental health. Full disclaimer, I am writing this article from the perspective of a cisgender therapist who has closely supported non-binary clients. I specialize in helping stressed professionals and overwhelmed moms/parents by providing anxiety therapy, self-esteem therapy, relationship counseling, and art therapy.
Challenges Faced by Non-Binary People in the Workplace
One of the primary challenges faced by non-binary individuals in cis-normative workplaces is the pervasive lack of understanding and acknowledgment of non-binary identities. Many workplaces operate under binary gender norms, which can lead to a feeling of invisibility or misgendering for non-binary employees. For instance, being referred to with incorrect pronouns or being forced to conform to binary dress codes can create a sense of discomfort and alienation.
Moreover, non-binary individuals often encounter microaggressions and discriminatory behaviors. These can range from insensitive remarks about gender identity to exclusion from workplace activities based on perceived gender norms. Such experiences can significantly impact mental health, leading to increased levels of stress, anxiety, and depression.
How It Can Impact Mental Health, Including Self-Esteem and Anxiety
The impact of navigating a cis-normative workplace as a non-binary person cannot be understated. Constantly having to explain or defend one's gender identity can take a toll on mental health. It often leads to heightened levels of anxiety about how one will be perceived or treated in professional settings. This chronic stress can erode self-esteem, causing individuals to doubt their worth or feel invalidated in their identity.
As a therapist specializing in anxiety in Milwaukee, I've seen firsthand how these challenges manifest in my non-binary clients. Many struggle with imposter syndrome, feeling like they don't belong or aren't taken seriously because their gender identity isn't understood or respected. This sense of being "othered" in the workplace can lead to a sense of isolation and emotional exhaustion.
What Can Help Non-Binary People Thrive in Cis-Normative Workplaces
Creating an inclusive and supportive workplace environment is essential for fostering the well-being and productivity of non-binary employees. Here are several strategies that employers and coworkers can adopt to promote inclusivity:
1. Education and Awareness:
Providing education about non-binary identities and gender diversity can go a long way in fostering understanding and empathy. Workshops or training sessions can help raise awareness about the challenges faced by non-binary individuals in the workplace.
2. Respect Pronouns and Names:
Respecting an individual's chosen name and pronouns is crucial for creating a respectful workplace environment. Encouraging all staff to include their pronouns in email signatures and introductions can help normalize this practice and reduce instances of misgendering.
As a coworker:
Approach your colleague and ask if they are comfortable with you correcting others when they are misgendered. This supportive gesture can make a significant difference. Simply intervening to say, “Excuse me, Ray identifies with they/them pronouns,” can help promote inclusivity.
As a non-binary individual:
Correcting others, especially supervisors or upper management, can be daunting. It's important to prioritize your comfort and safety in these situations. Ideally, such corrections wouldn’t be necessary, but when you feel secure, don't hesitate to assert your correct pronouns if you hear a coworker misgendering you.
3. Review and Revise Workplace Policies:
Reviewing existing policies related to dress code, restroom facilities, and anti-discrimination can ensure they are inclusive of non-binary individuals. Flexibility in dress codes that allow for gender-neutral attire options and gender-inclusive restroom facilities are important steps towards inclusivity.
“In 2022, the percentage of adults in the U.S. who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or something other than heterosexual (LGBTQ+) reached a new high of 7.1%”
4. Advocate for Gender Affirming Practices:
Supporting gender-affirming healthcare benefits, including coverage for hormone therapy and gender-affirming surgeries, demonstrates a commitment to the well-being of non-binary employees. Advocating for these benefits can make a significant difference in the lives of employees who seek medical transition.
5. Foster a Work Culture of Respect and Allyship:
Encouraging open dialogue and creating affinity groups or support networks for LGBTQ+ employees can foster a sense of community and belonging. Allies can play a crucial role in advocating for inclusivity and challenging discriminatory behaviors or language.
As a coworker:
Engage in open dialogue with your colleagues. If they are receptive, inquire about how you can best support them in the workplace. Avoid asking overly personal questions; consider if you'd be comfortable answering the same inquiries yourself. Inappropriate questions can cause discomfort in the workplace and should be avoided.
As a non-binary person:
Communicate with your supervisors and coworkers when you feel uncomfortable with a question. Remember, you are not obligated to answer personal questions that make you uncomfortable. However, be willing to share your experiences and respond to appropriate inquiries from colleagues who demonstrate genuine support. Open communication fosters mutual understanding and respect.
6. Provide Mental Health Access:
Recognizing the impact of workplace challenges on mental health, employers can offer access to mental health resources such as therapy sessions or support groups specifically tailored to LGBTQ+ employees. As a therapist in Milwaukee and throughout Wisconsin and Colorado, I've seen how art therapy can be particularly beneficial for non-binary individuals, providing a creative outlet to explore and express gender identity in a supportive environment.
In conclusion, thriving as a non-binary person in a cis-normative workplace requires a collaborative effort from both individuals and employers. By promoting education, respect, and inclusivity, workplaces can create environments where non-binary professionals feel valued, respected, and empowered to bring their whole selves to work. As an anxiety therapist in Milwaukee, I'm committed to supporting the mental health and well-being of non-binary individuals, advocating for inclusive practices that promote equality and dignity for all employees.
If you identify as non-binary and are navigating gender identity within professional settings and its impacting your mental health, reach out for a virtual consultation.