What is it about?
The complex interactive effects of racial discrimination and COVID-19 meet the criteria for a syndemic, or concurrent epidemics, for Black Americans. The syndemic of COVID-19 and racial discrimination may exacerbate suicide vulnerability for Black emerging adults. Furthermore, critical consciousness, resilience, and racial identity may be important targets to consider when developing and implementing culturally mindful suicide prevention and intervention strategies.
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Why is it important?
This research sheds light on the critical issue of suicide among Black emerging adults, highlighting the impact of social marginalization and culturally-relevant buffers on suicide risk within the Black American community. The implications of this study are significant, providing valuable insights for research, practice, training, and policy to address suicidal thoughts and behaviors among Black Americans, particularly during times of public health crises.
Perspectives
This manuscript, the official publication of my dissertation, reflects my dedication to understanding the unique social and contextual risk and protective factors influencing mental health outcomes for Black Americans. I invite you to explore how the combined effects of COVID-19 and racial discrimination may heighten suicide risk for Black Americans, underscoring the urgent need to identify sources of resilience for this community in the face of such challenges.
Jasmin Brooks Stephens
Massachusetts General Hospital
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: The syndemic effect of COVID-19 and racial discrimination on suicide risk for Black emerging adults: Examining a model of radical healing., Journal of Counseling Psychology, July 2024, American Psychological Association (APA),
DOI: 10.1037/cou0000749.
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