Sex Change Surgeries Harm Mental Health, Says Musk

Elon Musk, a towering figure in technology and a key influencer in the Trump administration, has sparked heated debate by claiming that sex change surgeries severely harm mental health. On March 5, 2025, Musk reposted a study on X, originally Twitter, from the University of Texas, published in The Journal of Sexual Medicine. The research suggests that individuals who undergo gender-affirming surgeries face higher rates of depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and substance use compared to those who don’t. Musk’s blunt statement—“Sex change surgery severely harms mental health”—ignited a firestorm of reactions. But what drives his outspoken opposition, and how does it tie into broader societal and political currents? This article explores Musk’s views, the science, and the implications of his stance.

Transitioning from a tech mogul to a political voice, Musk’s comments reflect both personal conviction and his role in shaping policy under President Donald Trump. His estranged relationship with his transgender daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, adds a deeply personal layer to his public rhetoric.

The Study Fueling Musk’s Claims

The University of Texas study Musk cited dives into mental health risks tied to sex change surgeries. Researchers analyzed data from thousands of patients, comparing those who had surgery with those who didn’t. Their findings? Post-surgery individuals showed a significant uptick in mental health struggles—depression rose by 20%, anxiety by 25%, and suicidal ideation spiked notably. Substance use disorders also climbed, suggesting a complex aftermath to these procedures.

Musk seized on these results to bolster his argument. He posted the study link on X with his now-viral comment, framing sex change surgeries as a danger to well-being. Critics, however, argue the study lacks context—correlation doesn’t equal causation. Could pre-existing mental health issues, societal stigma, or lack of support explain these outcomes? Transitioning to a broader view, the research adds fuel to an already polarized gender-affirming surgery debate.

For a deeper look at the study, visit The Journal of Sexual Medicine.

Why Elon Musk Opposes Sex Change Surgeries

Musk’s Elon Musk’s opposition to sex change surgeries isn’t new. His views crystallized after his daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, transitioned in 2022. In a 2024 interview with Jordan Peterson, Musk revealed his anguish, saying, “I lost my son, essentially.” He referred to Vivian by her birth name—a practice called deadnaming, widely seen as disrespectful in transgender circles—and blamed the “woke mind virus” for her transition. Musk claimed he was “tricked” into approving her medical treatment, a narrative Vivian later disputed.

Vivian, in an NBC News interview, countered that Musk knowingly consented after initial hesitation. She accused him of being an absentee father who mocked her queer identity as a child. This personal rift seems to drive Musk’s broader crusade against transgender policies. Transitioning to his public actions, Musk’s stance hardened as he aligned with conservative figures in the Trump administration.

Mental Health Risks: What the Data Shows

Do sex change surgeries truly harm mental health? The Texas study Musk champions isn’t alone. A 2023 review found similar patterns—higher rates of psychological distress post-surgery. Yet, contrasting research paints a different picture. The American Medical Association highlights that gender-affirming care, including surgery, often reduces depression and suicidality by aligning one’s body with their identity.

So, why the discrepancy? Experts suggest timing and support matter. Pre-surgery mental health struggles, rejection by family, or inadequate counseling can worsen outcomes. Transitioning to Musk’s perspective, he focuses solely on the negative stats, ignoring studies showing benefits. This selective lens amplifies the mental health risks narrative, stirring debate among scientists and advocates alike.

Musk’s Role in the Trump Administration

As a key figure in Trump’s administration, Musk wields influence through the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). His Elon Musk’s opposition to transgender healthcare extends beyond words. In February 2025, DOGE targeted USAID, pausing funding that shuttered India’s Mitr Clinic—a transgender healthcare hub. Musk celebrated this on X, writing, “That’s what American tax dollars were funding,” framing it as a win against wasteful spending.

This move aligns with Trump’s broader anti-trans agenda, including a January 2025 executive order banning federal funds for “chemical and surgical mutilation of children.” Musk’s rhetoric on sex change surgeries fits this policy push, positioning him as a conservative champion. Transitioning to impact, his influence raises questions about future healthcare access for transgender Americans.

The Personal Angle: Musk and Vivian

Musk’s views on sex change surgeries can’t be separated from his fallout with Vivian. After she legally changed her name and gender at 18, Musk’s public comments grew sharper. He told Peterson that Vivian was “dead” to him, killed by progressive ideologies. This emotional language reveals a father grappling with loss—albeit through a lens many find harsh.

Vivian’s rebuttal in 2024 painted a starkly different picture. She described Musk as distant and cruel, denying his “tricked” narrative about her treatment. This clash underscores a personal wound fueling Musk’s public stance. Transitioning to wider implications, their story mirrors the broader gender-affirming surgery debate—a mix of science, emotion, and ideology.

Swearing in Policy: Musk’s Broader Anti-Trans Moves

Musk’s Elon Musk’s opposition isn’t limited to words or family. His business decisions reflect it too. In 2024, he relocated SpaceX and X headquarters from California to Texas, citing California’s transgender-supportive laws—like those protecting students’ privacy—as “destructive.” This high-profile shift signaled his rejection of progressive policies.

On X, Musk has also dialed back protections for transgender users. In 2023, he removed rules against deadnaming and misgendering, amplifying anti-trans voices. Transitioning to DOGE, his role in slashing federal programs like USAID’s transgender initiatives shows a pattern—personal beliefs shaping policy. Critics argue this risks vulnerable communities’ access to care.

For more on transgender policy shifts, see Human Rights Campaign.

The Gender-Affirming Surgery Debate: Two Sides

The gender-affirming surgery debate pits Musk’s view against medical consensus. The World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) champions surgery as life-saving for many, reducing gender dysphoria. Studies show a 60% drop in depression among youth with access to affirming care. Yet, Musk and his cited research highlight mental health risks, questioning its efficacy.

Supporters argue proper screening and support mitigate risks—something the Texas study downplays. Critics of Musk say he cherry-picks data to fit his narrative, ignoring positive outcomes. Transitioning to resolution, this clash leaves policymakers and families navigating a minefield of conflicting evidence.

Public and Expert Reactions

Musk’s claim that sex change surgeries harm mental health has split opinions. Conservatives laud him for challenging “woke” norms, with X posts praising his candor. Trans advocates, however, slam his stance as uninformed and harmful. Dr. Ximena Lopez, a pediatric endocrinologist, told USA Today that gender-affirming care evolves like any medical field—debates should focus on refining it, not denying its value.

Meanwhile, Vivian’s public rebuttal added fuel. Her Threads post in January 2025—hinting at Musk’s alleged “Nazi salute” at Trump’s inauguration—drew viral attention, intensifying the backlash. Transitioning to impact, Musk’s words ripple through both policy and public perception.

What This Means for Transgender Healthcare

Musk’s influence in Trump’s administration could reshape transgender healthcare. His push against sex change surgeries aligns with DOGE’s cost-cutting ethos, potentially slashing funds for gender-affirming programs. The Mitr Clinic closure hints at what’s to come—reduced global support for trans care.

For individuals, this means tougher access to surgery and therapy, especially for minors. Transitioning to the future, advocates fear a chilling effect—patients delaying care due to stigma or policy barriers. The mental health risks Musk highlights might ironically grow if support systems erode.

FAQ: Musk and Sex Change Surgeries

Do sex change surgeries harm mental health?
Musk says yes, citing studies showing higher depression and anxiety rates. Others argue benefits outweigh risks with proper care.

Why does Elon Musk oppose sex change surgeries?
His views stem from personal experience with his daughter’s transition and a belief in negative mental health outcomes.

What’s the gender-affirming surgery debate about?
It’s a clash between evidence of mental health benefits versus risks, amplified by Musk’s stance.

How does Musk’s role affect policy?
Through DOGE, he pushes anti-trans funding cuts, influencing healthcare access.

What’s Vivian’s take on Musk’s claims?
She denies he was tricked into approving her care, calling him distant and cruel.

The Bigger Picture: Science vs. Ideology

Musk’s claim that sex change surgeries “severely harm mental health” blends science with ideology. His cited study raises valid questions, but cherry-picking risks oversimplifying a complex issue. Transitioning to a balanced view, experts call for more research—longitudinal studies tracking patients pre- and post-surgery—to settle the debate.

For now, Musk’s voice amplifies a conservative push against transgender rights. Whether his influence reshapes healthcare or galvanizes advocates, one thing’s clear: the gender-affirming surgery debate isn’t fading anytime soon.