The Psychological Toll of Systemic Oppression and Racism on Mental Health

By Saachi Sakhalkar 

Oppression-based stress manifests as a form of psychological strain that individuals from subordinated groups endure daily. It stems from experiences of discrimination and marginalization, resulting in feelings of fear, stress, and diminished self-worth. Research indicates that this chronic stress can lead to a deterioration in mental health, as individuals grapple with the constant threat of marginalization and the negative perceptions that accompany such systemic biases (Williams & Williams-Morris, 2000) (Racism and Mental Health: The African American Experience, 2021). The emotional toll is heavy, as the struggle against a societal structure designed to inhibit their growth diminishes not only their sense of self but also their collective identity. 

The reality is stark: Marginalized individuals are likely to experience elevated rates of anxiety, depression, and trauma-related disorders compared to their white counterparts. For example, a study discusses how systemic barriers to mental health care amplify these issues, creating a vicious cycle where those who need help the most are often the least able to access it (Anglin et al., 2014) [414]. The fear of discrimination within healthcare settings can discourage individuals from seeking necessary support, leaving them to cope with their heightened anxiety and depression alone. 

Racism is not merely a social ill that exists in isolation; its ramifications extend deeply into the realm of mental health. Experiences of racial discrimination trigger significant psychological distress, leading to conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other anxiety-related disorders. As articulated in various studies, the overwhelming nature of racial trauma can create a prolonged state of mental health vulnerability among those affected (Hatzenbuehler et al., 2017) [422]. The weight of historical injustices and contemporary discrimination culminates in what can be termed "racial trauma," suggesting that the mental health impact of such experiences is both profound and persistent. 

Moreover, the compounded mental health stigma faced by people of color, largely a product of systemic oppression, further aggravates their circumstances. This stigma not only acts as a barrier to seeking help but also perpetuates a cycle of silence surrounding mental health issues. The lack of culturally competent services that understand the unique challenges faced by racial minorities often leaves significant gaps in care (Williams et al., 2019) [425]. Access to mental health resources is often unequal, intensifying disparities that have plagued these communities for generations. 

Addressing mental health disparities requires a nuanced understanding of the systemic barriers that prevent access to care. For instance, Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) communities often report lower rates of mental health service utilization compared to white individuals (Lewis et al., 2015) [426]. This disparity can be attributed to various factors, including financial obstacles, geographic limitations, and cultural inadequacies within the mental

health care system. Importantly, 83% of individuals from minority backgrounds with depression or anxiety continue to face unmet mental health needs, further underscoring the urgent need for targeted interventions (Priest et al., 2013) [427]. 

The solutions to these systemic issues lie in a multifaceted approach that encompasses both policy changes and community-driven initiatives. Initiatives aimed at destigmatizing mental health discussions and promoting culturally relevant support systems can enhance access to care for marginalized populations. Furthermore, advocacy for equitable mental health policies is crucial in dismantling the barriers that perpetuate inequity and hinder individuals from seeking help (Medlock et al., 2018) [424]. 

The intersection of systemic oppression and mental health is a complex, often painful terrain that many individuals navigate daily. By confronting the reality of oppression-based stress and the multifactorial impact of racism, society can begin to foster an environment that nurtures mental well-being for all. It is only through acknowledging these disparities that we can work towards meaningful change—creating systems of support that uplift marginalized voices, validate their experiences, and promote healing. The journey toward mental health equity is not merely about offering care; it is about transforming the societal structures that have long dictated who is deserving of health and happiness. Only then can we aspire to achieve a truly just society.

Bibliography 

Williams, D. R. (2021). Racism and mental health: The African American experience. Harvard University. 

https://scholar.harvard.edu/davidrwilliams/dwilliam/publications/racism-and-mental-health-afric an-american-experience 

National Center for Biotechnology Information. (n.d.). Racism and mental health and the role of mental health professionals. National Library of Medicine. 

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8278246/ 

National Center for Biotechnology Information. (n.d.). Understanding the psychological impact of oppression using the psychological framework. National Library of Medicine. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9850126/ 

Colorado Health Institute. (2021). Stigma and systemic barriers: Mental health care. https://www.coloradohealthinstitute.org/research/stigma-systemic-barriers-mental-health-care