Ash Palmisciano has started making YouTube videos to give people advice on transitioning, dealing with dysphoria and dating.
The ‘Emmerdale’ star plays Matty Barton, who was previously known as Moira Dingle’s (Natalie J. Robb) daughter Hannah Barton, in the ITV soap, and he has been inspired to try to help his fans after being inundated with questions, and after seeing other stars make excuses for not being able to respond to supporters.
Speaking in a video on his YouTube channel, the transgender actor said: "I want to start making YouTube videos. I thought why not kick it off talking about what I’ve been through.
"I wrote down some of your questions that you sent me. I do get all your messages and I do read them all.
"I remember watching videos of people in the past and they say, ‘Oh, I’ve been really busy, I’m sorry I can’t get back to you.’ And I just think, ‘W***er.’ "
The 28-year-old star has advised people to turn to "someone you respect" if they feel they are "struggling" with their gender and are considering transitioning as an option.
He added: "I would pick someone who you are extremely close to as the first person you tell. Someone that you respect and feel is going to be OK with this.
"I think it’s important to almost have a trial run. The first time you say those words you’re going to feel pretty scared, you’re going to feel very shaky, very anxious. I know people who have written letters to their parents, they find it less daunting.
"Maybe say, ‘I’m struggling with my gender, I’m not sure … but I would like to explore this.’ "
Ash also offered advice on dysphoria – a state of dissatisfaction with life – and urged people to "write the day off" and go back to bed if they aren’t feeling up to it.
He said: "Dysphoria is what every trans person basically deals with. Don’t look in mirrors when you’re having a bad day, and accept that you’re having a dysphoria day.
"Write that day off, get in bed."
Ash Palmisciano offers advice on transitioning
