BIPOC Support

Mental Health for the Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) Community

Racial Trauma

What is Racial Trauma?

Racial trauma is the result of experiencing and witnessing racial stressors including racism, discrimination, and violence against people of color. These acts of racism and discrimination create an environment in which a person of color feels unsafe and vulnerable in their community simply for existing in their own skin.

What are the Effects of Racial Trauma?

• Re-experiencing distressing events

• Chronic stress

• Hyper-vigilance (feeling jumpy and easily scared)

• Depression

• Anxiety

• Physical pain

How Can I Cope with Racial Trauma?

• Being seen and heard is essential to healing. Connect with others who are able to engage in racially conscious conversations and willing to help you process your thoughts and emotions. Do a self-check and ask yourself if you need help or someone to talk to.

• Make a list of situations, people, or places that trigger your symptoms of trauma, and make a similar list of ways to cope for each of these situations, people, or places.

• Consider engaging in activism. Feeling empowered involves participating in actions to solve difficulties.

• Practice self-care by engaging in activities that you enjoy and make you happy. Engage in prayer, mindfulness, spiritual practices, and use of mantras.

• Recognize when you are not able to perform optimally because of the above symptoms and rest if you are able.

Coping Tools