The Bridge
‘Everyday discrimination’ linked to increased anxiety and depression across all groups of Americans
Last Updated on August 28, 2025 by Daily News Staff
Monica Wang, Boston University
People who most frequently encounter everyday discrimination – those subtle snubs and slights of everyday life – are more likely to suffer from anxiety and depression.
What’s more, that finding remains true no matter the person’s race, gender, age, education, income, weight, language, immigration status or where they live.
These are the key takeaways from our recent study, published in JAMA Network Open.
Everyday discrimination refers to the routine ways people are treated unfairly because of characteristics such as skin color, perceived background or general appearance.
Generally, it means disrespectful treatment: waiting longer than others for help at a store, having your ideas dismissed without consideration at work, or hearing rude comments about your identity.
Although marginalized groups endure everyday discrimination most often, our study indicates that this is a widespread issue affecting people of all races and backgrounds.
I’m a professor who specializes in community health. My team and I analyzed data from the 2023 National Health Interview Survey, which included a weighted sample of nearly 30,000 U.S. adults, adjusted to accurately reflect more than 258 million people – approximately 75% of the country.
Along with reporting frequency of everyday discrimination, participants completed clinical screenings for depression and anxiety.
The results were striking: Nearly 56% of participants experienced at least occasional everyday discrimination, with 3.6% having “high levels,” meaning they faced discrimination most frequently – at least monthly and often weekly.
High levels were most prevalent among Black adults, at 8.6%. Multiracial respondents were next with 6.4%. Hispanics and white participants were at about 3%, Asians just over 2%.
Women and immigrants, people with disabilities and those who are overweight, obese or struggling with food insecurity also reported higher levels.
When compared with those reporting no discrimination, participants with high levels had five times the odds of screening positive for either depression or anxiety, and nearly nine times the odds of screening positive for both.
As discrimination increased, the increase in screening positive for depression, anxiety or both varied by race, with a more noticeable rise among groups that are often overlooked in these discussions – white, Asian and multiracial adults.
This doesn’t mean discrimination is less harmful for Black, Hispanic/Latino or other racial and ethnic groups. One possible reason for our study’s findings may be that groups that have long endured structural discrimination may have developed more ways over time to cope with it.
Why it matters
At some point, all of us experience unfair treatment due to our personal traits. But this type of discrimination isn’t just unpleasant. Our study shows it has real consequences for health.
Along with depression and anxiety, discrimination creates chronic stress, leading to increased risk for hypertension, heart disease, impaired brain functioning, accelerated aging and premature death.
For some, everyday discrimination may emerge at different times in life. This can happen to people as they get older or when they become ill.
But for others, it is a constant. This includes people living in marginalized communities, people of color, those socioeconomically disadvantaged or with disabilities, or those who identify as LGBTQ+. https://www.youtube.com/embed/dOUSBLPQ5Sk?wmode=transparent&start=0 Ageism is one of many forms of everyday discrimination.
What other research is being done
Multiracial people are uniquely challenged because they navigate multiple racial identities. This often leads to feelings of isolation, which increases mental health risks.
White adults, though less frequently exposed to racial discrimination, still face mistreatment, particularly if they have lower incomes, limited education or working-class backgrounds. In recent years, white people have perceived rising levels of discrimination against their own group.
People of Asian descent are vulnerable to societal pressures and harmful stereotypes, which spiked during the COVID-19 pandemic.
When factors are combined – for example, adding financial insecurity or immigration status to racism – compounded health challenges arise.
What’s next
Understanding how discrimination affects health for all can lead to policies and programs targeting root causes of mental health disparities and the rising rates of depression and anxiety.
Discrimination isn’t just a Black versus white issue. It’s a public health crisis affecting all Americans. Acknowledging its harmful health effects is a first step.
The Research Brief is a short take on interesting academic work.
Monica Wang, Associate Professor of Public Health, Boston University
This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
Urbanism
LA Metro’s D Line Extension Phase 1 Officially Opens, Bringing Subway Service to Mid-Wilshire and Beverly Hills
LA Metro’s D Line Extension: LA Metro officially opens Phase 1 of the D Line Subway Extension, connecting Downtown Los Angeles, Mid-Wilshire, and Beverly Hills with three new underground stations.
The future of transportation in Los Angeles has officially arrived.
LA Metro’s D Line Extension Phase 1 Officially Opens
The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) officially opened Section 1 of the long-awaited D Line Subway Extension on May 8, 2026, expanding underground rail service westward through the historic Mid-Wilshire corridor and into Beverly Hills.
The 3.92-mile extension is one of Metro’s most ambitious transit infrastructure projects and marks a major milestone in Los Angeles public transportation. The new section extends subway service beyond the current Wilshire/Western station in Koreatown and introduces three new underground stations:
- Wilshire/La Brea
- Wilshire/Fairfax
- Wilshire/La Cienega
The expansion is part of Metro’s larger “Twenty-Eight by ’28” initiative designed to improve mobility across the region ahead of the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Downtown Los Angeles to Beverly Hills in About 20 Minutes
With the extension now open, riders can travel from Union Station in Downtown Los Angeles to Beverly Hills in approximately 20 minutes with no transfers required.
The D Line extension is expected to significantly improve travel along the heavily congested Wilshire Boulevard corridor, offering commuters, visitors and residents a faster and more reliable alternative to driving.
“Traveling through Mid-Wilshire to experience the culture, cuisine and commerce across diverse neighborhoods will be easier, faster and more accessible,” said Fernando Dutra, Metro Board Chair and City of Whittier Council Member.
Metro CEO Stephanie Wiggins also highlighted the importance of the project in connecting Angelenos to some of the city’s most iconic destinations.
“Angelenos and visitors alike will love the extended service from Downtown Los Angeles to Beverly Hills, delivering greater access to the iconic and culturally diverse communities, institutions and destinations that define the deep history along Wilshire Boulevard,” Wiggins said.
New Stations Connect Riders to Cultural Landmarks
Wilshire/La Brea Station
Located near Hancock Park and the western edge of Koreatown, the station provides access to cultural and entertainment destinations including:
- Korean Cultural Center
- Marciano Art Foundation
- Ebell Theater
- Popular restaurants including Republique and Sycamore Kitchen
Wilshire/Fairfax Station
Known as the heart of Museum Row, this station serves some of Los Angeles’ most recognizable cultural institutions and attractions, including:
- Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
- Academy Museum of Motion Pictures
- Petersen Automotive Museum
- La Brea Tar Pits
- The Grove
- Original Farmers Market
The station also connects neighborhoods including Little Ethiopia, Park La Brea and the historic Fairfax District.
Wilshire/La Cienega Station
Serving as the eastern gateway to Beverly Hills, the station provides convenient access to Restaurant Row and destinations including the Beverly Center.
A Major Milestone for Los Angeles Transit
The D Line extension has been decades in the making and is widely considered one of the most important transit projects in Los Angeles history.
The project was funded primarily through Measure R, the voter-approved transportation sales tax passed in 2008, along with substantial federal funding support that included:
- $1.25 billion Full Funding Grant Agreement (FFGA)
- $66.4 million supplemental New Starts funding
- $749.3 million TIFIA loan
All three stations feature modern amenities including public artwork, enhanced lighting, cell phone service, bicycle hubs and improved pedestrian access.
Metro officials hope the extension will encourage more residents and visitors to use public transportation while helping reduce roadway congestion ahead of major international events scheduled for Los Angeles later this decade.
What’s Next for the D Line?
Construction is already underway on future phases of the D Line extension.
Phase 2 will continue west into Beverly Hills and Century City, while Phase 3 will eventually extend subway service to UCLA and the West Los Angeles VA campus.
Once completed, the D Line will provide a direct subway connection between Downtown Los Angeles and the Westside, dramatically reshaping mobility across one of Southern California’s busiest corridors.
Learn More
For official project details and station information, visit:
Metro D Line Opening Information
Stay connected with STM Daily News for the latest updates on Los Angeles transportation, Metro expansion projects, infrastructure developments, local news, technology, culture, and more. Visit STM Daily News for breaking stories, in-depth coverage, and exclusive content from across Southern California and beyond.
Last Updated on May 4, 2026 by Daily News Staff
Cinco de Mayo is a holiday that commemorates the Mexican army’s victory over the French Empire at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. In the United States, the holiday has become a celebration of Mexican-American culture and heritage, often involving parades, parties, and traditional foods such as tacos and margaritas.
How will you celebrate Cinco de Mayo?
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The Knowledge
Metrolink Offers Fare-Free Rides for Earth Day 2026 Across Southern California
Metrolink offers fare-free rides for Earth Day 2026 across Southern California, encouraging sustainable travel and reduced emissions.
Last Updated on April 21, 2026 by Daily News Staff
Metrolink Offers Fare-Free Rides for Earth Day 2026
LOS ANGELES — April 22, 2026 — In a continued push toward sustainable transportation, Metrolink will once again offer systemwide free rides on Earth Day, inviting commuters and travelers to leave their cars behind and explore a cleaner way to move across the region.
A One-Day Opportunity to Ride Free
On Wednesday, April 22, passengers can board any Metrolink train — including the Arrow service — without purchasing a ticket. The initiative is part of the broader celebration of Earth Day, encouraging environmentally conscious travel choices.
The fare-free program is designed to appeal to both regular riders and first-time users, particularly those navigating Southern California’s persistent traffic congestion and rising fuel costs.
Encouraging Sustainable Travel Habits
“Earth Day is a reminder that small changes, like choosing public transit over driving one day a week, can have a meaningful impact on our environment,” said Doug Chaffee, chair of the Metrolink Board.
With gas prices continuing to strain household budgets, the agency hopes the initiative will inspire more residents to consider rail as part of their regular commute.
Regional Connections Expand Access
Metrolink’s Earth Day promotion aligns with similar efforts by other Southern California transit providers. Riders can seamlessly connect to services operated by: LA Metro and the Orange County Transportation Authority, Riverside County Transportation Commission, San Bernardino County Transportation Authority and Ventura County Transportation Commission.
These partnerships extend the reach of fare-free travel across a six-county region, making it easier for riders to explore destinations without relying on personal vehicles.
Service Adjustments and Rider Tips
Passengers should note that trains will operate on a reduced weekday schedule, implemented earlier this spring. Despite the adjustment, all Metrolink lines and station cities remain in service.
For those planning a trip:
- No ticket is required — simply board the train
- Bikes are welcome, with capacity ranging from three bikes per standard car to nine in designated bike cars
- A curated destination guide highlights attractions within walking or biking distance of stations
Environmental and Economic Impact
Metrolink is also promoting its Personal Impact Calculator, a digital tool that allows riders to estimate how switching from driving to rail can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lower fuel expenses.
A Broader Trend in Public Transit
Fare-free transit days have gained traction nationwide as agencies look to boost ridership and promote sustainability. Southern California’s expansive commuter rail network makes it particularly well-suited for such initiatives, offering a viable alternative to one of the country’s most car-dependent regions.
Bottom Line
Metrolink’s Earth Day promotion is more than a one-day free ride — it’s a strategic effort to shift commuter behavior, reduce environmental impact, and showcase the convenience of regional rail. For Southern Californians, April 22 presents a low-risk opportunity to rethink how they travel.
Source: Metrolink
https://metrolinktrains.com/news/metrolink-goes-fare-free-for-earth-day-on-april-22
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