On October 13, 2023, Dr. Chase Anderson (prefers to be called Chase), an assistant professor of child and adolescent psychiatry at the University of California San Francisco, spoke to students, faculty, and staff about “Minority Stress in the Medical Professional.” Chase spoke on a wide range of topics related to minority stress and its impact on mental health, with a focus on the context within American society and the healthcare system. Chase began by sharing a personal vignette of his journey from adolescence to now, highlighting his struggles with depression and discrimination he faced due to his racial and gender identity. He then covered the idea of minority stress and its influence on mental health, with an emphasis on the experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals, racial and sexual minorities, and the intersectionality of all three identity groups. Chase also discussed the issue of microaggressions, the effects of minority stress on medical trainees, and the growing role of diversity and awareness in the healthcare field. He stressed the importance of the need for allies, protection of minoritized individuals, humility when addressing difficult conversations, and the importance of believing individuals when they bring concerns to light. Chase then presented strategies for healing, coping, and future directions for research on minority stress. His presentation shed light on the impact that minority stress has on mental health, highlighting the importance of needing awareness, empathy, and systemic change in the healthcare field and society.

The event conveyed the unique relationship between minority stress and mental health, as well as the challenges faced by individuals from all marginalized groups. Chase’s personal story and sharing of research findings showed the critical need for change and support in the healthcare field to combat bias, discrimination, and microaggressions that contribute to minority stress. His talk encouraged reflection and provided a roadmap for the path to creating a more inclusive and empathetic environment for minoritized groups in healthcare.

Did you miss the event? Watch the event recording.