Mental Health, Sense of Belonging, and Identity in a Xenophobic World


Secil E. Ertorer, Canisius University

The Commission on the Social Determinants of Health (SDOH), established by the World Health Organization, emphasizes that ones health is profoundly influenced by the conditions in which they are born, raised, live, work, and age (World Health Organization, 2020). The SDOH framework highlights racism and discrimination as critical social factors with significant impacts on both physical and psychological well-being.In alignment with this perspective, extensive research has established a clear link between encounters with racial discrimination and adverse mental health outcomes, including heightened psychological distress, reduced life satisfaction, increased anxiety, depression, and various other mental health challenges. During the COVID-19 pandemic, individuals of Asian descent have unfortunately faced xenophobia and discrimination related to the virus. This study delves into the self-reported experiences of anti-Asian racism, mental health, and a sense of belonging and identity. Drawing on the results of an empirical study that employs a mixed-method approach involving 300 Asians and Asian Americans, the research reveals a positive correlation between experiences of discrimination and heightened levels of anxiety, depression, identity crises, and distress.

This paper will be presented at the following session: