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Racial discrimination and its impact on mental health
Meryam Schouler-Ocak1, James Kenneth Moran2
1Psychiatric University Clinic of Charité at St. Hedwig Hospital Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
International Review of Psychiatry (Abingdon, England)
|December 15, 2022
Summary
Racial discrimination significantly impacts mental health across the lifespan, affecting neurophysiology and overall well-being. Addressing all forms of racism is crucial for dismantling systemic inequalities and improving health outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Psychology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Racial discrimination, encompassing structural, institutionalized, interpersonal, and internalized forms, profoundly affects mental health throughout life.
- The cumulative impact of intersectional discrimination is strongly linked to diminished mental well-being.
- Existing research indicates a correlation between racial discrimination and neurophysiological changes, including alterations in brain volume.
Approach:
- This review synthesizes evidence on the multifaceted impacts of racial discrimination on mental health.
- It examines the links between various forms of racism and psychological well-being.
- The review also explores the neurophysiological consequences of racial discrimination, particularly effects on brain structure.
Key Points:
- Racial discrimination is a significant determinant of mental health across the entire lifespan.
- All manifestations of racism, including intersectional discrimination, are associated with adverse mental health outcomes.
- Neurophysiological changes, such as reduced brain volume, are linked to the effects of racial discrimination.
Conclusions:
- A comprehensive understanding of the interconnections between racial discrimination and mental health is essential.
- Inter- and transdisciplinary approaches are necessary to effectively address and dismantle racial discrimination.
- Mitigating the impact of racism is critical for improving population mental health and well-being.
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