How discrimination affects mental health for college students with intersecting identities in Texas

What is it about?

This study examines how college students’ experiences of discrimination are linked to their mental health, and how these experiences differ depending on students’ gender, race, ethnicity, and citizenship status. Using survey data from more than 1,600 students across multiple Texas universities, we looked at who experiences discrimination most often and how those experiences relate to symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress. We found that discrimination was more commonly reported by students who are People of Color, Hispanic, women, and non-citizens. Importantly, students with multiple marginalized identities—such as Hispanic women—experienced especially high levels of discrimination. We also found that discrimination was strongly linked to worse mental health, particularly when discrimination involved stigma, such as being viewed as untrustworthy or inferior.

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Photo by Pang Yuhao on Unsplash

Photo by Pang Yuhao on Unsplash

Why is it important?

This study is important because it shows that discrimination does not affect all students in the same way. Instead, mental health risks are shaped by how multiple identities intersect. Looking at gender, race, ethnicity, and citizenship together revealed patterns that would have been missed if each factor were examined on its own. The findings are especially timely given ongoing debates and policy changes related to diversity, equity, and inclusion on college campuses—particularly in Texas. By identifying which groups are most vulnerable and which forms of discrimination are most harmful, this work can inform campus mental health services, prevention efforts, and institutional policies aimed at creating safer and more inclusive learning environments.