According to NIH, National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD), anti-Black violence is associated with poor mental health for Black minorities. A 2021 study supported by NIMHD examined the impact of anti-Black violence on the mental health of Black Americans to better understand how these incidents affect community health and well-being. The study found that national psychological distress was significantly higher during weeks when incidents of racial violence occurred and were widely covered in the media. This distress was not only immediate but also had lingering effects, contributing to long-term mental health challenges.

The researchers highlighted that exposure to news about anti-Black violence, including police brutality and racially motivated attacks, exacerbates feelings of fear, anxiety, and helplessness among Black Americans. These mental health impacts are compounded by systemic racism and discrimination, which further strain the mental health of Black communities. The study underscores the need for public health interventions and policies that address the root causes of racial violence and provide mental health support to those affected.

This research emphasizes the broader implications of racial violence on public health and calls for a comprehensive approach to mitigate its adverse effects on mental health.

Source: Anti-Black Violence Is Associated with Poor Mental Health for Black Americans –

https://www.nimhd.nih.gov/news-events/research-spotlights/racial-violence-is-associated-with-poor-mental-health.html

The slogan “Racism is a public health hazard” has been used by various health organizations to highlight the significant impact of racism on public health. For instance, the American Public Health Association (APHA) and the American Medical Association (AMA) have both declared racism as a public health crisis. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also recognizes racism as a serious threat to public health.

These declarations emphasize that racism contributes to health disparities and negatively affects the well-being of marginalized communities. By acknowledging racism as a public health issue, these organizations aim to promote systemic changes and allocate resources to address and mitigate its effects.