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Journal article
How do Culturally and Racially Marginalised (CaRM) populations in Australia cope with the mental health impacts from "new racism"? A qualitative descriptive study
Nursing Reports, Vol.16(3), 99
2026
Abstract
Background: Australia’s increasingly multicultural landscape has seen a rise in culturally and linguistically diverse populations, many of whom face subtle and systemic forms of discrimination known as “new racism”. Objective: Underpinned by a person-centred and holistic framework, which recognises individuals as experts in their own lived experiences and emphasises strength-based, culturally situated understandings of well-being, this paper reports on a study that explores how culturally and racially marginalised diverse people in Australia cope with the mental health impacts of new racism. Design: A qualitative descriptive approach was employed in this study. Participants: Thirty participants from ten culturally and linguistically diverse communities participated in eight focus groups, providing rich insights into their lived experiences. Methods: Data were collected through semi-structured focus-group interviews conducted between March and June 2025. Data were analysed using Braun and Clarke’ method of thematic analysis. Results: Thematic analysis revealed four key coping strategies: (1) acceptance of immutable identity traits to foster resilience, (2) emotional ventilation within culturally safe spaces, (3) self-growth and empowerment through reflection and adaptive practices, and (4) assertive responses to racism when necessary. While some participants reported psychological distress, many demonstrated resilience and resourcefulness, challenging deficit-based assumptions often found in the existing literature. Findings underscore the importance of culturally responsive mental healthcare, including peer support, emotional safe spaces, and strength-based interventions. Conclusions: This study offers a holistic understanding of how culturally and racially marginalised people cope with new racism and its mental health impacts. The findings highlight the critical need for person-centred, culturally responsive, and equity-focused mental health support, providing actionable guidance for nursing practice and policy development.
Details
- Title
- How do Culturally and Racially Marginalised (CaRM) populations in Australia cope with the mental health impacts from "new racism"? A qualitative descriptive study
- Authors/Creators
- Eric Lim (Author/Creator) - Murdoch University, School of NursingShireesha PotlaJaya Dantas - Curtin UniversityTakeshi Hamamura - Curtin UniversitySender Dovchin - Curtin UniversityStephanie DrydenAna Tankosic
- Publication Details
- Nursing Reports, Vol.16(3), 99
- Publisher
- MDPI
- Number of pages
- 16
- Identifiers
- 991005869207207891
- Copyright
- © 2026 by the authors.
- Murdoch Affiliation
- School of Nursing
- Resource Type
- Journal article
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