The study investigates the impact of racism and discrimination on the mental health of young people in Victoria during the COVID-19 lockdown. Drawing on data from 363 individuals aged 16–24, the research highlights the prevalence of direct and vicarious racial discrimination, heightened vigilance, and worries about experiencing racism. Notably, 73.7% reported direct discrimination, and 88.9% experienced vicarious racial discrimination. These experiences were significantly more common among Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander youth and those from multicultural backgrounds.
The study found strong associations between these discriminatory experiences and negative mood states, with over half of participants reporting moderate-to-high psychological distress. Additionally, COVID-19-related stressors—such as financial strain and social isolation—exacerbated mental health challenges. Despite the high prevalence of distress, few young people sought support, with only 12.2% accessing professional help.
This research underscores the urgent need for targeted mental health support and anti-racism initiatives, particularly for culturally diverse youth. It calls for further exploration into the long-term effects of racism-related stress and the development of inclusive, youth-centred interventions to promote wellbeing and equity.
