The Impact of Racial Trauma and Coping Strategies

Racial trauma, also known as race-based traumatic stress, is the psychological, mental, and emotional harm caused by racism and discrimination. It can result from experiencing racism firsthand or witnessing it.

The term "race-based traumatic stress" was coined by Robert T. Carter in 2007, recognizing the profound impact of racism on Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC). The symptoms of racial trauma vary and can manifest as anxiety, depression, avoidance behaviors, difficulty concentrating, feelings of humiliation, hypervigilance, increased reactivity, loss of appetite, low self-esteem, problems sleeping, and nightmares.

The effects of racial trauma are far-reaching and can contribute to decreased quality of life and reduced lifespan. It affects mental health, leading to conditions such as post- traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), complex PTSD (C-PTSD), chronic stress, depression, and anxiety. Racial trauma also impacts physical health, increasing the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and hypertension.

Coping with and healing from racial trauma requires a comprehensive approach. Strategies include:

• Connecting with others: Finding community and sharing experiences can promote healing. Storytelling within Black communities has been identified as a powerful tool for collective healing.

• Practicing self-care: Engaging in activities that promote self-love and well-being, such as walks in nature, meditation, or journaling, can help soothe and heal.

• Setting boundaries for media consumption: Limiting exposure to media portrayal of violence againstBIPOC can reduce anxiety and improve mental health.

• Seeking professional assistance: Therapy can provide valuable support and guidance in processing racial trauma. Finding a trauma-informed therapist, especially someone from a similar racial background, can enhance the therapeutic experience.

Racial trauma is a complex issue with long-lasting effects, but it's important to remember that healing is possible. By utilizing these strategies and seeking professional help when needed, individuals can cope with racial trauma and reclaim their well-being.