Racism and Mental Health

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Racism and mental health
are connected in many ways.

This video will discuss
the impact on people

and communities who are targets of racism.

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Around the world,

Black, Indigenous, and
People of Color are the target

of prejudice, systemic discrimination,

microaggressions, and
physical acts of violence

due to the color of their skin.

Experiences of racism not only
cause distress in the moment,

but can also lead to mental health issues

that become more severe
with each experience.

Let's review some of the immediate

and longterm effects of racism.

During and immediately after
experiencing racism,

the fight-or-flight
nervous system response

may be activated.

This survival response prepares people

to respond to threats in the environment,

and can include anxiety or stress,

a faster heartbeat, sweating,
nausea, and racing thoughts.

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People can also experience sadness, anger,

and have a lowered sense
of self-worth and confidence.

Over time, the cumulative effect of racism

can cause chronic stress
and a heightened stress response,

poor overall mental health,
and physical health issues.

Experiencing racism can
contribute or lead to symptoms

of depression, anxiety, and PTSD.

It can also cause hypertension
and other cardiovascular problems,

relationship difficulties,

trouble with school or work performance,

and an overall reduced sense of wellbeing.

People do not have to be the direct target

of interpersonal acts of racism

to experience its harmful effects.

Research shows that being a part
of a marginalized group

in and of itself is a source of stress.

Witnessing oppression
or violence towards individuals

from one's community
can cause vicarious trauma

and even symptoms associated
with post-traumatic stress disorder.

This is often widespread after instances

of racist violence
make national headlines.

The economic and emotional impact
of dehumanization

and victimization can be passed down
over generations.

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The ripple effects of history

are still impacting
many people in the present day.

People from marginalized communities

are not only more likely to experience
mental health issues

due to social determinants
and institutionalized racism,

they're less likely to have access
to treatment for their concerns.

It's clear that increasing access
to mental health care is vital

to promote the health
and wellness of everyone.

So how do we make changes?

No one individual alone
can be responsible for affecting change.

Positive change and healing
requires a conscious effort from everyone.

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When it comes to such a widespread
and ingrained problem such as racism,

making a positive change requires us all
to be a part of the solution.

We all greatly benefit
when the lives of everyone are valued

and people can live out
their full potential.

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We must educate ourselves
on the history of racism

and unlearn many things
that are presented as truth

by the dominant culture.

Take initiative and do research.

There are many books, websites, training,

and other resources
to help you on your journey.

Don't place the burden
of the time and emotional labor

of this education
on already burdened people

from marginalized communities.

When you see acts of racism, call it out,

and call people
into having meaningful conversations

about the impact
of their words and actions.

Let's all work together
to support mental health for all

and make our world
a more equitable and inclusive place.

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