LAUSR

The question of race and racism has been well-recognised as influencing presentation of psychiatric disorders and help-seeking as well as pathways to care and also acceptance of therapeutic measures. These observations have been reported from many countries around the globe. There are both similarities and differences in this endeavour as cultures and healthcare systems differ widely. However, there remain major challenges in our understanding of what these terms mean and how they are employed. The ascription of race and racism can be misused for a number of reasons. Problems with accessing services may be to do with perceived institutional racism. Often those who experience it directly or indirectly see these experiences in very different ways than those who are seen as creating these emotions and responses.