The Psychological Effects and Experiences of the Asian Canadian Population During the COVID-19 Pandemic

This narrative qualitative research study explored experiences of anti-Asian racism from the perspective of four Asian Canadians in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) during the COVID-19 pandemic. The research aims to illustrate the impact of anti-Asian racism following the emergence of the COVID-19 virus and how it affected the mental health and well-being of these individuals. Through the theoretical framework of Critical Race Theory, this research focused on presenting the stories from the perspective of people of colour and examines how practices of racial discrimination have suppressed Asian Canadians. This research paper utilizes a thematic narrative analysis to dissect the findings of the study. The themes that emerged from the study included the circulation of misinformation through news and social media, experiences of micro-aggressions, the development of stress and anxiety, and calls for preventative measures. The findings provided insight into how some forms of racism may be experienced in Canada during the COVID-19 pandemic and its mental health implications. Following the analysis of this study, implications for future social work practice and research are discussed. These implications include the advocacy for further longitudinal research and push for policy change to protect and support Asian populations in Canada.