Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)—once a corporate buzzword, now a battlefield. Some say it’s essential for a better workplace and society; others argue it’s unnecessary, even divisive. But what’s actually happening with DEI in the U.S. right now? And more importantly, how is it affecting our mental health?
Here’s the short answer: Recent political and corporate shifts are putting DEI programs at risk, and that’s having a real impact on stress, anxiety, and workplace well-being.
Let’s break it down.
1. The Backlash: Why DEI Is Under Fire
DEI programs were booming after 2020. Companies hired Chief Diversity Officers, universities launched equity initiatives, and mental health advocates celebrated better representation.
Fast forward to 2023-24? A major pullback is happening.
Job Cuts – Companies are quietly laying off DEI teams. Reports show DEI job listings fell by 44% in 2023 after peaking in 2021. Big players like Meta, Amazon, and Twitter have reduced or removed their diversity efforts.
Political Crackdowns – Several states are banning DEI programs. Texas, Florida, and other conservative states have passed laws restricting diversity training and funding for DEI in public universities. Some argue these programs promote “reverse discrimination.”
The Supreme Court Decision – Affirmative action in college admissions? Gone. In 2023, the Supreme Court struck down race-conscious admissions, signaling that corporate DEI programs might be next in legal challenges.
So…what does all this have to do with mental health?
2. The Mental Health Toll of Losing DEI
For Employees – Companies that dismantle DEI efforts see higher workplace anxiety among marginalized employees. Only 38% of Black workers feel psychologically safe at work, compared to 62% of white workers. When DEI programs shrink, employees feel less supported, leading to higher stress and burnout.
For Students – Universities cutting DEI programs create a hostile environment for minority students. Research shows students from marginalized backgrounds already experience higher rates of depression and anxiety—removing DEI services can worsen the crisis.
For Society – DEI isn’t just about workplaces and schools. It’s about access to mental health resources. Studies show BIPOC and LGBTQ+ individuals struggle to find therapists who understand their cultural backgrounds. Without DEI funding, these resources vanish.
3. Why This Matters (Even If You Think DEI Isn’t for You)
Even if you’ve never attended a DEI training, its impact is everywhere:
It helps companies build healthier, less toxic workplaces.
It ensures mental health services reflect diverse communities.
It gives people a sense of belonging, reducing isolation and anxiety.
So, when DEI disappears, we’re not just losing a corporate initiative—we’re losing mental health support, community, and equity.
Final Thoughts: What Now?
DEI isn’t dead, but it’s shifting. Some companies are rebranding it under "belonging" or "people-first initiatives", while mental health advocates push for inclusive therapy and workplace wellness programs.
If you’re worried about these changes, here’s what you can do:
Speak Up – If your workplace is cutting DEI efforts, advocate for mental health resources instead.
Seek Culturally Competent Therapy – Platforms like TheraWin help immigrants find therapists who understand their struggles.
Support Inclusive Companies – Where you work and shop matters—choose brands that value mental well-being for all.
DEI isn’t just a workplace policy. It’s a mental health issue. And right now, it needs our attention more than ever.
