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Whether it's unfair treatment from the police, community members, or healthcare workers, about half of all U.S. adults report they have experienced some form of major discrimination, according to a recent study from the American Psychological Association (APA).

The report from the APA links discrimination, micro-aggressions, and the anticipation of racism with heightened stress levels and mental illnesses. It also explores ways to address them within the mental health system.

Dr. Monnica Williams, a psychologist, professor, and the director of the University of Louisville’s Center for Mental Health Disparities, studies the link between racism and post-traumatic stress disorder, which is known as race-based traumatic stress injury. Here, she explains how discrimination can effect a person's mental health.