Are We Well?24 Jun 2025

Racial Battle Fatigue and the Cost of Racism with Dr. William Smith

In this episode, Neelam welcomes Dr. William A. Smith, a distinguished professor at the University of Utah and a leading voice on the psychological impacts of racism. They explore the concept of racial battle fatigue, which Dr. Smith coined in 2003 to describe the chronic stress experienced by black and brown communities due to racism. With appointments in psychiatry, education, and ethnic studies, Dr. Smith shares insights from his extensive research and discusses its implications for mental health and education. The conversation also touches on his recent recognition as one of the world's top scientists, highlighting his significant contributions to the field. Join Neelam and Dr. Smith as they delve into the complexities of healing and the importance of mental health justice in today's society.

"Sometimes a partner might think there's something wrong with them, when it's just him experiencing these negative treatments out in the larger society, and really not trying to bring it home, but he doesn't have a space to process."

Notes:

[00:02:29] Racial battle fatigue's origins.

[00:06:04] Racial battle fatigue defined.

[00:12:27] Racial battle fatigue manifestations.

[00:20:03] Racial microaggressions and fatigue.

[00:23:06] Racial epigenetics and trauma..

[00:34:15] Racial battle fatigue impacts communities.

[00:39:43] Psychological impacts of racism.

[00:45:05] Mental health of black men.

[00:49:03] Black fathers' engagement statistics.

[00:51:43] Thriving beyond resilience.

[01:00:21] Movement as healing through dance.