Racism and Unsafe Living Conditions Hurt Mental Health in Milwaukee, According to New Comprehensive Injury Center (CIC) Study
A new study from researchers in the Comprehensive Injury Center (CIC) at the Medical College of Wisconsin, in collaboration with researchers at UW-Milwaukee and Marquette University, shows that racism and poor living conditions are making people’s mental health worse in Milwaukee, Wis.
The research looked at how things like neighborhood environments, substance use and social support are connected to stress, anxiety, and depression for Black Milwaukee residents. The scientists studied different neighborhoods in Milwaukee, one of the most racially divided cities in the country. They found that people who live in areas with more exposure to violence and those who experience discrimination and racism or use substances are more likely to have mental health issues.
“We found that unfair systems that maintain structural racism still hurt people today,” said Dr. Carissa Tomas, lead researcher and assistant professor of epidemiology and social sciences in MCW’s Institute for Health and Humanity. “It’s not just about personal choices—where people live and how they’re treated by society has a big impact on their mental health.”
The researchers say that Milwaukee and other cities across the country need better policies focused on reversing policies and practices that lead to mental health disparities, along with community support to fix these problems. They hope this study will help city leaders and health workers understand what needs to change to help people feel better, both mentally and physically.