background: The history of United States (US) enslavement and post slavery oppressions disproportionately affects Non-Hispanic Blacks (NHB). These adverse experiences based, largely on institutional and interpersonal racism are linked to factors that contribute to depression. The objective of this study was to examine the association between perceived racism and reported depression among US NHB and Non-Hispanic White (NHW) men.

methods: Information was extracted from the 2014 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, scientific literature, and popular press (PP) using ATLAS.ti software. The systematic literature reviews conducted used select inclusion and exclusion criteria.

results: In 2014, more NHB men (25%) reported thinking about their race “constantly” compared to NHW men (1.5%). Men (NHB and NHW) who reported thinking about their race “constantly” were more likely to report depression. The scientific literature and PP reported that NHW men have benefitted from generations of socioeconomic advantage and better opportunities within US systems compared to NHB men. Moreover, the legacy of enslavement and current instances of racial oppression and violence through police brutality and racial hate crimes negatively affected NHB men; result, NHB men have masked their depression and depressive symptoms.

conclusion: Racism is a barrier to good mental health. Our results suggest that NHB men are at greater risk of experiencing depression and depressive symptoms because of their experiences with law enforcement, sporadic discrimination, and racial hate crimes. Future research exploring the roots of depression and the extent to which historical and structural racism impacts NHB men and women should be a top priority.