Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) experience mental illness at similar rates as white people, but they’re less likely to get treatment due to cultural barriers, stigma, and lack of access to care. These disparities can have a serious impact on BIPOC mental health. People who don’t receive treatment for mental illness are more likely to experience persistent symptoms that interfere with their daily lives.
In the workplace, the impact of discrimination and pressure to perform (and sometimes, overperform) in a way that lowers the risk for negative evaluation can heighten mental distress for BIPOC employees. For companies, this distress can, in turn, contribute to lower retention, loss of workplace diversity, and poor organizational outcomes. Studies show focusing on diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) makes companies stronger and delivers more engaging employee experiences.
For many BIPOC individuals, workplace experiences have contributed to poorer mental health outcomes. Workplaces have caused harm (intentional or otherwise), and many BIPOC employees may carry older wounds into new workspaces. Employers have the opportunity to create an environment where BIPOC employees feel seen, valued, and heard, including those who have previously experienced workplace race-based discrimination.
Read more at LyraHealth.com.
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