Systemic Racism, Ethnic Discrimination, and Children’s Mental Health: Fostering Global Conversations

Abstract

Children and adolescents globally are particularly vulnerable to the unfortunate consequences of ethnic discrimination and systemic racism. These impacts not only synergize with other adverse early life experiences but also permeate all psychosocial domains, especially mental health, leading to detrimental shifts in their life trajectory. While terms like ethnic discrimination and systemic racism have been unconsciously used for centuries outside of North America, their interpretation has predominantly relied on a cultural lens, neglecting to acknowledge their profound impact on children's mental well-being. This paper aims to discuss the mental health implications of systemic racism within various social systems and raise awareness of its dire outcomes for children and adolescents. Additionally, it will focus on recommendations by early career psychiatrists (ECPs) who advocate for change in social systems within their own cultures. In 2020, the Global Mental Health Think Tank was established by a diverse, multidisciplinary, and online-based network of ECPs affiliated with the World Psychiatric Association’s ECP section. These ECPs and co-authors are internationally practicing adult and child and adolescent psychiatrists, and physician-scientists. Discussions among authors highlighted three main areas of concern: a) trauma and related disorders within the context of ethnic discrimination, b) discrimination against minorities in education systems, and c) discrimination of minorities in maternal health. Another noteworthy observation was the scarcity of literature on this topic globally, highlighting the need for increased system-based qualitative studies and interventions that align with each region’s respective culture.