Coping with Racial Trauma
Unfortunately all too often, we are faced with yet another instance of the horrific death of a racial minority, most often a member of the Black community, during their interactions with police. Videos of these incidents often spread rapidly through news and social media. Emerging research shows that viewing these videos can cause one to feel as if they are vicariously experiencing the incident, which can be especially disturbing and emotionally painful for members of the Black community. Many scholars have used the term “racial trauma” to describe the increase in symptoms of depression and anxiety that result from this race-based traumatic stress.
The American Psychiatric Association released an official viewpoint in 2018 detailing the multitude of research showing the negative psychological effects of police brutality on the Black community.
Coping with Racial Trauma:
(Adapted from Dr. Erlanger Turner at the University of Houston)
Acknowledgement & Validation: Our society often sends messages denying the presence of racism and racial trauma, which can leave you feeling a sense of doubt and uncertainty about what you’re experiencing. Naming your experiences can help provide you a voice to speak your truth and recognize its impact.
Community: Seek a safe and supportive space where you can share and receive interpersonal support. This could be within your family, among trusted friends, or with a culturally-affirming therapist.
Counteract Devaluation: It’s easy to feel as if the violence you witness against a member of your community is a reflection of your worth within society. It’s important to recognize that your personal self-worth is not defined by societal problems, that you have extraordinary value and a human right for dignity.
Empowerment: It’s normal (and temporarily necessary!) to feel anger and rage after witnessing a traumatic event. However, it’s equally important to re-channel anger into empowerment, pushing forward after adversity. According to Dr. Turner, this could include engaging in activism or self-care strategies such as spending time with family.
Questions to Ask as an Ally and Advocate:
It’s important that the Black community not feel as if they are the only ones are taking steps to prevent racial trauma. Take a moment to explore the questions below as you develop a commitment to being an ally and advocate.
Does my sharing this video of police brutality further the conversation in any meaningful way? Could it potentially cause harm to someone I care about who has to repeatedly witness racial violence? Is there a way I can show my support and advocacy without sharing the video?
How can I be a better White ally?…..How can I help change the culture of racial violence in America?
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Framework remains committed to providing affordable, culturally-affirming therapy. Our therapists strive to provide a safe space to process experiences of racial oppression and discrimination, and advocate for social justice within the mental health field.
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