Even more to handle: Additional sources of stress and trauma for clients from marginalized racial and ethnic groups in the United States during the COVID-19 pandemic

In addition the general stressors occurring as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, individuals who are members of marginalized racial or ethnic minority groups in the United States may face additional stressors, such as pandemic-related, racially-based prejudice and discrimination and the magnification of pre-existing health disparities and their effects. Such stressors may increase pandemic-related and general health risks both directly and indirectly and increase the risk for both general and traumatic stress. These stressors and their historical and social contexts are discussed, and implications for clinicians are provided.

Automated summary

In addition to the general stressors of the COVID-19 pandemic, marginalized racial or ethnic minority groups in the United States may face additional stressors such as pandemic-related racism and discrimination, and the exacerbation of existing health disparities. These stressors can increase both pandemic-related and general health risks, as well as the risk for general and traumatic stress. It is important to consider these stressors and their historical and social contexts in clinical practice.