I feel like my body is not mine, but I'm afraid I'm just confused and making up a problem. How do I know if I'm really transgender and not mistaken?

Doubt is a normal part of the journey, and it doesn't make you any less real. What matters is that the thought of living in the wrong body fills you with dread—that's a signal, not baseless worry. Nobody wakes up with absolute certainty; everyone has doubts, fears, and second-guessing. Try moving forward gradually: experiment with clothing, hairstyles, names—it doesn't have to be all or nothing. If possible, seek out a therapist who specializes in transgender issues to help you sort through your feelings. But remember: you're not alone, and your path is not a race—take it at your own pace.