Survival Mode Is Killing Us: The True Cost of Code-Switching At Work

stressing-at-work

Constantly changing ourselves to fit in at work is not just mentally draining, but also physically aging Black women, according to research published in the American Journal of Public Health. The study found that facing racial discrimination accelerates biological aging in Black women, with those reporting higher levels of discrimination having telomeres equivalent to someone 7.5 years older. The pressure to excel while navigating biases in predominantly white workplaces leads to chronic stress, emotional exhaustion, and burnout, with severe health outcomes such as hypertension. To protect themselves, Black women can prioritize therapy, stress management, and community support, but systemic change in workplaces is essential to foster environments where authenticity is celebrated and everyone can thrive. Prioritizing authenticity and inclusivity is not just a corporate goal, but a necessity for the well-being and success of Black women in the workplace.


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