What to do

An ex-colleague has a 15 year old who is male identifying. The pronouns and mode of dress have changed plus puberty blockers started a while back. The next step is to start testosterone.

We spoke yesterday over Teams and he voiced his concern and I can't say I blame him. He knows about me of course and the only other case I know up close is another colleague whose female born son is now almost 26. Their transition began later and he is very happy.

It is difficult to know what to advise here and I don't presume to. Frankly however I think it might be a bit early given what testosterone tends to do including a significant and irreversible deepening of the voice. He asked me what I thought and I said I agreed with his concern but to continue to wholeheartedly support his son. I am seeing enough cases of regret these days that downplaying them would be foolish.

As someone who can greatly sympathize I commend the support he is getting at such a young age while also being painfully aware about potential repercussions of erring. At least they all agreed there won't be any rush into surgeries.