Online Racism Drives Black Young Adults to Digital Mental Health Tools

A new study published in JMIR Formative Research reveals a significant link between experiences of online racism and increased utilization of digital mental health resources among Black young adults, regardless of existing anxiety or depression levels.

The research, conducted by a team at North Carolina State University and the University of Southern California, highlights a proactive approach to mental well-being within this demographic, with 88% of participants reporting exposure to online racism within the past six months. Medical Xpress reports on the findings.

Understanding the Connection

Digital mental health tools, as defined in the study, encompass a range of online resources including telehealth therapy sessions, wellness applications, and online social support groups. Researchers found that Black young adults who frequently encounter online racism are more likely to seek support through these platforms.

“This work sheds light on both how pervasive online racism is and the extent to which young adults are taking action to protect their mental health in light of that racism,” says Vanessa Volpe, co-author of the study and an associate professor of psychology at North Carolina State University.

The study also noted a correlation between experiencing online racism and increased engagement in online mental health communication – sharing personal experiences and seeking information from others online. This suggests a broader trend of utilizing digital spaces for mental health support and community.

Study Methodology

The study analyzed data from 1,005 Black young adults aged 18-29. Participants completed a survey assessing their exposure to online racism, their use of digital mental health tools, frequency of online mental health communication, and symptoms of anxiety or depression. JMIR Formative Research details the methodology.

Although individuals with clinically significant symptoms of anxiety or depression demonstrated higher rates of utilizing digital mental health resources, the association between online racism and seeking support remained consistent even for those without such symptoms. This indicates that many Black young adults are proactively addressing the mental health impact of online racism, irrespective of a clinical diagnosis.

Implications for Mental Health Professionals and Tech Developers

Researchers suggest that mental health practitioners should inquire about clients’ online experiences and current use of digital tools. The study highlights the potential value in designing digital mental health tools specifically tailored to address the unique challenges faced by Black young adults in online spaces, including strategies for coping with online racism.

“Mental health practitioners may want to ask clients about their experiences online, the online tools and resources they are currently using, and explore the costs and benefits of online spaces for their health and well-being,” Volpe stated. Life Technology also reported on this implication.

Melissa Holland, first author of the study and a Ph.D. Student at NC State, added, “We know young adults spend a lot of time online, that online racism is a problem, and that digital mental health tools are available online. Our goal with this work was to gain a deeper understanding of just how common exposure to online racism is for Black young adults, and whether those young adults are likely to utilize online resources designed to support their mental health.”

This research underscores the importance of recognizing and addressing the mental health consequences of online racism and leveraging technology to provide accessible and culturally relevant support for Black young adults.

Source: Holland, M. C., Walker, K. A., Badejoh, O. O., Volpe, V. V., Keum, B. T., Huh, J., & Oh, H. (2026). Online Racism, Digital Mental Health Tools, and Online Mental Health Communication Among Black Young Adults With and Without Depression or Anxiety: Cross-Sectional Quantitative Study. JMIR Formative Research, 1(1), e80657. https://formative.jmir.org/2026/1/e80657