Racial Discrimination Increases the Risk of Psychotic Symptoms

Recent research conducted by University College London (UCL) highlights a significant link between racial and ethnic discrimination and an increased risk of developing psychotic symptoms. Published in PLOS Mental Health, this comprehensive umbrella review consolidates findings from seven systematic reviews and meta-analyses, encompassing a total of 23 primary studies with over 40,000 participants in Europe and the US.

The evidence indicates that experiences of racial or ethnic discrimination are consistently associated with a higher likelihood of psychosis, a severe mental health condition characterized by hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, and behaviors. The review found that individuals who have faced discrimination are 77% more prone to developing psychotic symptoms and are nearly twice as likely to have experienced psychosis compared to those who haven't. Moreover, those subjected to physical racial attacks are five times more vulnerable to latter psychotic symptoms.

Findings are most pronounced in the general population, where individuals without a clinical diagnosis of psychosis still report psychotic experiences linked to discrimination. First author Ph.D. student India Francis-Crossley explains that persistent stress from racism may influence brain processes related to threat perception, thereby increasing mental health risks.

The review emphasizes that direct personal discrimination is just one aspect; systemic racism, which often remains unseen, could further exacerbate mental health disparities. Senior authors, including Professor James Kirkbride and Dr. Juliana Onwumere, stress the importance of addressing societal racism through public health policies, as it significantly impacts the mental well-being of minority groups and perpetuates intergenerational health inequalities.

This research underscores the urgent need for societal and policy-level interventions to combat racism, aiming to reduce its profound impact on mental health and ensure equitable healthcare for all communities.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-racial-discrimination-linked-higher-psychotic.html