How the Current Administration Is Affecting Mental Health : A Focus on the Queer and BIPOC Populations

Lilla Jones, MA, LPC

The intersection of politics and mental health has always been a topic of conversation, but in recent years, it has become impossible to ignore. The policies and rhetoric of the current administration in the United States are impacting the mental well-being of millions, particularly those from marginalized communities, such as the queer and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) populations. As debates over civil rights, healthcare access, and social justice continue to unfold, it’s important to consider the profound psychological effects these issues have on individuals already navigating systems of oppression.

The Strain of Political Polarization

One of the most significant effects of the current administration on mental health is the increased sense of political polarization. Many people feel as though they are living in an environment that is increasingly hostile to their identities and values. For the queer and BIPOC communities, these feelings are heightened by policies that often directly target their rights, safety, and overall well-being.

Laws banning transgender youth from accessing gender-affirming healthcare, attempts to roll back LGBTQ+ protections in employment, and the resurgence of anti-immigrant rhetoric have contributed to an environment of fear, stress, and uncertainty. These policies send a clear message to marginalized groups that their identities and existence are not fully valued, and this has tangible effects on mental health.

The Impact on Queer and Trans Individuals

For queer and trans individuals, mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD are already disproportionately high due to societal discrimination and violence. Under the current administration, the rollback of LGBTQ+ protections in areas like healthcare, housing, the military and employment has made the fight for equality even more challenging. For example, the Supreme Court's decision to allow the Department of Health and Human Services to implement a rule allowing healthcare providers to discriminate against transgender patients is horrifying for those who already face barriers to adequate healthcare.

Moreover, the pushback against the rights of trans youth has created an atmosphere of uncertainty and fear among both young people and their families. With anti-trans legislation sweeping through state legislatures, many young people are left to grapple with their own sense of self-worth, fearing for their futures in a society that seems to be working against them.

For queer and trans people of color, the mental health effects are even more compounded. BIPOC and LGBTQ+ individuals face multiple layers of discrimination, both on the basis of their sexual orientation or gender identity and their race. This intersectionality creates a unique set of challenges that are often overlooked in mainstream conversations about queer and trans rights.

BIPOC Communities: Struggling for Justice

The mental health toll on BIPOC communities under the current administration is also significant. The rise of white supremacy, police brutality, and racially charged rhetoric has contributed to a culture of fear and trauma for many individuals. The death of George Floyd in 2020 and subsequent Black Lives Matter protests brought to the forefront the enduring reality of systemic racism in the United States. Despite some steps forward, such as the increased attention to racial injustice, much of the political conversation has been marked by denial of racial inequality and a refusal to take meaningful action.

For many in the BIPOC community, this denial is not just political—it is deeply personal. The erasure of their lived experiences and struggles in favor of rhetoric that dismisses their pain can create feelings of hopelessness and disillusionment. This trauma is not just the result of overt acts of racism but also the daily microaggressions and systemic inequalities that permeate the experiences of BIPOC individuals.

The Intersection of Race and Gender

When considering the mental health impacts on BIPOC queer and trans individuals, the situation becomes even more complex. Queer and trans people of color navigate not only the challenges of being queer or trans in a world that often rejects these identities but also the additional burden of racism, cultural alienation, and xenophobia. The administration’s rhetoric, which often targets immigrants, non-white communities, and LGBTQ+ individuals simultaneously, amplifies feelings of invisibility and marginalization.

For example, transgender people of color are disproportionately impacted by violence. According to the Human Rights Campaign, Black transgender women face alarmingly high rates of violence, and many of these incidents occur in the context of neglect from public institutions. The current administration’s reluctance to actively address such violence or provide meaningful support only exacerbates the mental health struggles of these individuals.

The Role of Media and Rhetoric

The media and political rhetoric that unfolds from the current administration also plays a crucial role in shaping public opinion and, consequently, the mental health of these marginalized communities. When political figures and leaders speak in ways that dehumanize queer and BIPOC individuals, it has a direct impact on their mental well-being. This rhetoric often encourages or emboldens discriminatory behavior, leading to an increase in hate crimes, bullying, and social alienation.

Social media also plays a role in amplifying the negative effects of political discourse. For many queer and BIPOC individuals, social media can be a lifeline, offering spaces to connect, share experiences, and find solidarity. However, it can also be a source of distress, especially when hateful rhetoric is widespread, or when members of these communities are targeted by online harassment.

The Need for Mental Health Support

It’s clear that the mental health of queer and BIPOC populations is being severely impacted by the current political climate. However, there are ways forward. One of the most important steps is ensuring that mental health care is accessible, culturally competent, and inclusive. This means creating safe spaces for queer and BIPOC individuals to discuss their experiences and providing resources that acknowledge the unique challenges they face.

Mental health professionals should be trained in understanding the intersectionality of race, gender identity, and sexual orientation and how these factors contribute to an individual’s overall well-being. Additionally, there should be a concerted effort to combat the stigma around mental health in queer and BIPOC communities, where cultural factors may discourage people from seeking help.

Moreover, political leaders and advocates must actively work to create policies that protect marginalized communities and promote inclusivity. Legal protections for LGBTQ+ people and people of color are essential for creating a society where individuals can thrive without fear of discrimination or violence.

HowTherapy Can Help

Therapy plays a crucial role in helping queer and BIPOC individuals navigate the mental health challenges exacerbated by the current political climate. By offering a safe space, providing tools to process trauma, exploring complex identities, building coping skills, and fostering a sense of community, therapy can be a transformative resource for those who need it most.

Conclusion

The impact of the current administration on the mental health of queer and BIPOC populations is a pressing issue that deserves our attention. As we continue to navigate these challenging times, it’s important to recognize the unique challenges faced by marginalized communities and work together to create a more compassionate, inclusive, and supportive environment. Only through systemic change, both in politics and society, can we begin to alleviate the mental health toll on those most vulnerable.

Reach Out Today!

If you’re looking to process and understand the impacts of the current administration on your personal life, consider reaching out to Old Town Counseling and working with Lilla Jones. Together, you can create a personalized plan that aligns with your unique needs and helps you prioritize your mental health in a way that lasts. This is hard, you don’t have to do it alone!