Microaggressions

Hello, My Name Is Microaggression.

Microaggressions are subtle and indirect statements or actions that seek to discriminate members of a marginalized group, such as a racial or ethnic minority.

Microaggressions can affect your mental health by…

1) heightening feelings of not belonging, not feeling comfortable in a store (due to employee suspicion of you)

2) causing feelings of being trapped in a stereotype that you can’t break free from 

3) causing uncertainty about whether an interaction was subtly snide or not can be somewhat distressing, always leaving you second guessing yourself

4) leading you to worse outcomes or prognosis of your condition when dealing with microaggressions in healthcare.

5) causing lead to suicidal thoughts after repeated exposure to microaggressions.

Okay, now, how do I move forward after experiencing microaggressions?

1) If you’re comfortable, take the time to explain to your friend/colleague etc. why their words are hurtful and shouldn’t be repeated. Only do this if you are comfortable doing so; your existence does not need to be justified to anyone.

2) Effective dialogue is key to stop microaggressions from continuing. Whilst we may feel like immediately using highly emotional language, instead say “Hey, what you said may have been a genuine question but it makes me feel uncomfortable and hurt, it seems racially charged.” By approaching the situation this way, a dialogue can ensue where the perpetrator of the microaggression can gain more perspective and hopefully become more educated on the topic at hand.

3) Always remember that a microaggression against you isn't something you cross to bear – it is reflective of the other person’s thoughts and attitudes. Whilst there is nothing we can do to stop microaggressions from occurring (they’re not our fault) there are some ways in which to deal with them.

Microaggression Affirmation:

Here Affirm that you are not the problem just because you experienced this. I am a unique individual with unique experiences. I am not the reflection of others perceptions of me. 

Source: Kevin L. Nadal, APA, Forbes; Researcher: Devmi Epaarachchi