Microaggressions refer to the subtle, everyday instances of discrimination whether they be verbal, nonverbal or environmental. They may seem innocuous to the sender at first glance, but the recipient can feel the heat of hostility, undermining their mental health, their self-esteem, and their motivation.
It's difficult to identify microaggressions because they are ubiquitous, and understanding the impact that they have on people needs a shift in our attitudes toward marginalization. Microaggressions may seem small, but when they pile up, they can have disastrous long-term effects on our mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and even PTSD.
Little Words Can Have a Big Impact
Unlike more overt forms of discrimination, microaggressions are often delivered inadvertently. Their effects on mental health can lead to self-doubt, anxiety, depression, and more. People who are subjected to repeated microaggressions have been shown to have lower self-esteem and higher levels of depression and anxiety than people who are not.
Microaggressions in high school or college can distort individuals' beliefs and expectations about social interactions. It is, therefore, essential to take microaggressions seriously, even when they don't seem significant.
Studies have shown that people who experience microaggressions often find themselves at greater risk of physical and mental health problems. These problems might not be readily apparent to those around them, but over time the negative impact can be tremendous.
The cumulative effect of microaggressions can be a significant risk factor for depression, anxiety, and PTSD. The long-term negative effects of microaggressions can lead to individuals disassociating from their social environment, with a decrease in feelings of self-worth.
Finding Support is Crucial to Mitigating the Stress
Victims of microaggressions may feel isolated, misunderstood, and frustrated which can lead to negative thoughts about themselves and the world around them. For some, these impacts will lead to long-term mental health complications.
Though people of all backgrounds can experience microaggressions, marginalized communities are hit especially hard by these cumulative effects. Many people of color, for example, report experiencing racial microaggressions that can range from "micro" to "macroaggressions." The underlying message of these microaggressions is that the victim is not valued or respected.
Studies have shown that seeking therapy can be productive for people who have faced microaggressions. After all, if a person is feeling hurt, they should seek support and help in speaking with a therapist. It is a way to learn how to deal with stressors that are often caused by microaggressions.
The therapist may help individuals develop coping skills or strategies to overcome the negative effects of microaggressions. Therapy is often the best way for individuals to feel heard, understood, and that their pain is taken seriously.
We All Play a Role
It's crucial for us to understand that the impact of microaggressions is real and not to be underestimated. These subtle forms of marginalization might not seem important, but they are often the cause of long-term damage that is not visible to the naked eye. As communities, we must take action to recognize microaggressions and work towards ending them.
We must prioritize providing support for those affected by microaggressions and recognize that mental health resources are a necessary aspect of this support. We must acknowledge that microaggressions cause real harm and trauma and work to prevent them from occurring.
Marginalized communities should be able to live their lives without fear of microaggressions, and until that is achieved, we must stand together in solidarity. Let us work towards a world where people are valued and respected regardless of their backgrounds.
If you're experiencing discrimination and are looking for a supportive environment to work through it all, please reach out to connect with one of our therapists.