Many marginalized groups experience higher rates of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) than white people.

Media depictions of racism, such as police violence against unarmed Black people, may also trigger feelings of racial trauma. This is particularly true among Black people in the United States, the majority of whom say they have experienced racism. Racial trauma is widespread among marginalized groups.

Racial trauma can affect many aspects of a person’s life, including their ability to have relationships, concentrate on school or work, and feel safe. Racial trauma is the ongoing result of racism, racist bias, and exposure to racist abuse in the media.