Psychological distress that ethnic minorities experience is an often overlooked problem. In France, the mental well-being of ethnic minorities, particularly those with North African immigrant backgrounds is an important issue to study. Both first- and second-generation immigrants face unique challenges that may make them more vulnerable to more general mental health issues, and psychological disorders. A fresh report from the European Fundamental Rights Association on being a Muslim in the EU (published on October 24, 2024) sheds some light on issues related to health and racial harassment and violence. The report did not study psychological issues specifically, but it is worth noting that race-related violence has psychological impact for 55 percent of the respondents (p. 21).
Vulnerability is frequently linked to ethnic minority status, leading to recurring experiences of discrimination and difficulties in reconciling cultural identity with a society that often prioritizes assimilation. In this context, assimilation tends to erase or disregard the original cultural heritage in favor of integration into the dominant culture. Such dynamics can lead to feelings of isolation, invalidation, and psychological distress among affected individuals.
Research on the mental health of French populations of North African descent remains largely neglected. In other regions, for example North America, mental health and immigration is much better studied. While the topic of discrimination has been explored in some areas, few studies have focused on the psychological effects of these experiences and the coping strategies adopted by these populations in France. Some research does indicate a rise in discrimination, but lack of comprehensive studies on this issue creates both a scientific and social void, keeping these topics largely invisible.
In other southern European countries such as Italy and Spain, the mental health problems of ethnic minorities are recognized, but do not yet receive the same attention as in North America. In Italy, studies on the mental health of minorities are mainly focused on recent migrants and refugees, not least because of the importance of migratory flows in the Mediterranean. Researchers are mainly interested in the traumas associated with exile and the precarious conditions of migrants, but issues of discrimination or systemic racism are less well explored.
In Spain, there is also research on the mental health of migrants, particularly from Latin America and North Africa. However, the framework remains focused on social integration and economic issues, and less on the dynamics of discrimination and ethnicity. Both countries are beginning to recognize the importance of these issues, but in-depth studies on the impact of racial discrimination on the mental health of ethnic minorities, as in all parts of Europe, are still limited.
One psychological phenomenon that is still underexplored in this context is “racial battle fatigue.” Introduced in the early 2000s by William A. Smith, this concept refers to the emotional and psychological stress accumulated by individuals who repeatedly face racism. It represents the emotional burden that ethnic minorities carry as a result of racial discrimination and societal expectations. This burden can drive individuals to minimize or suppress their own suffering to avoid being perceived as “weak” or “complaining.” These coping mechanisms can exacerbate psychological issues, creating a vicious cycle of untreated distress.
In academic and professional settings, there is often reluctance to openly discuss these challenges. Some individuals may regard these topics as taboo or controversial, limiting the opportunities for open dialogue and scientific advancement. This reflects a broader trend in the mental health field, where the specific needs of ethnic minorities, particularly in terms of tailored psychological care, are not adequately addressed.
If we are going to be able to provide concrete answers to these questions, we need to study this phenomenon and shed some light on the mechanisms underlying the psychological suffering of ethnic minorities. Research on the psychological distress experienced by ethnic minorities could also help develop therapeutic interventions better suited to these populations. A recent French pilot study can lead the way: in Rania Driouach’s sample of people with North African descent, 226 out of a total of 387 participants indicated heightened psychological distress on a transgenerational level. Her study is the first step towards a scientific framework that acknowledges the specific needs of these groups while promoting an inclusive and rigorous therapeutic approach. Perhaps such a framework can help pave the way for a better understanding of the effects of migration on psychological distress across generations, and provide better tools for the (mental) health care providers that provide both first and second line care.
This post is written by Rania Driouach (Nîmes University) and:
Sylvia Martin, Clinical Psychologist and Senior Researcher at the Centre for Research Ethics & Bioethics (CRB)
We transcend disciplinary borders
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