What We Know
Discrimination is defined as unjust treatment based on characteristics such as (but not limited to) race, sexual orientation, gender, ability, age, or beliefs. Everyday life that can be affected by discrimination can include (but are not limited to) applying for jobs, interacting with authority, considerations for promotions, rent or buy a home, or receiving medical care [1].
How It Affects Our World
Living under discrimination can lead to persistent stress. This kind of stress can lead to hypertension, diabetes, heart disease and other related health issues [2]. Discrimination has also shown to have a negative impact on an individual’s mental health such as developing anxiety and/or depression. Additionally, a risk of unhealthy life choices such as substance abuse can follow being continuously discriminated against [3].
What We Can Do About It
At Finding The Light Project we will always highly recommend professional medical and mental health providers as the foundation of treatment. Beyond that, we are here to provide you with knowledge, theological reasoning and encouragement. We invite you to subscribe and explore how you can find light in the darkness. It’s time to find hope and happiness once again!
Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or Text 9-8-8
Resources
[1] Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (2020). Discrimination in America. Retrieved from https://www.rwjf.org/en/library/research/2017/10/discrimination-in-america--experiences-and-views.html
[2] Williams. D. R. (October, 2017). Why discrimination is a health issue. Culture of Health Blog. Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. Retrieved from https://www.rwjf.org/en/blog/2017/10/discrimination-is-a-health-issue.html
[3] American Psychological Association (October, 2019). Discrimination: What it is, and how to cope. Washington D.C. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/topics/discrimination