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2020 Convention

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LPA Statement on Racial Injustice in America

Released June 3, 2020

The Louisiana Psychological Association would like to add our collective voice in support of peaceful protest against the legacy of structural and sustained racism that continues to impact the African American community and other communities of color. The horrific murder of George Floyd, a black man, by a white police officer kneeling on his neck in Minneapolis, Minnesota has sparked outrage across the United States and internationally. Sadly, this tragedy does not stand alone. Ahmaud Arbery was gunned down while jogging and Breonna Taylor was shot multiple times by police during a raid of her home. These tragedies happened within weeks of each other. There are tragically countless examples of this targeted violence directed towards African Americans.

We grieve with Mr. Floyd’s family, the families of Mr. Arbery and Ms. Taylor, and our nation at a time of deep civil unrest. LPA stands for justice and fair treatment of all individuals regardless of their race, religion or sexual orientation.

Dr. Martin Luther King stated, “Those who accept evil without protesting against it are really cooperating with it.” Additionally, Dr. King proclaimed “Violence as a way of achieving racial justice is both impractical and immoral.” It is our challenge as a nation to peacefully protest the deeply unfair treatment of African Americans in particular and communities of color more broadly as well as to support our law enforcement in developing and implementing strategies that support the fair treatment of all individuals.

As psychologists, we are well aware of the impact of stress associated with racial bias on the health outcomes of African Americans including increased levels of anxiety, depression, heart disease and diabetes. The tragic results of these continued pressures are also laid bare, with the disproportionate deaths of African Americans as compared to the majority population associated with the COVID-19 virus.

As psychologists, we also know that a new traumatic event can reawaken prior trauma for a single person, as well as for generations of family and community. The trauma then may become more complex, confusing, and overwhelming. It can leave some feeling sure they must handle their distress alone and in silence. For all of us experiencing distress during this time of collective trauma, it may be helpful to reach out for support from family and friends, spiritual leaders, and behavioral health professionals.

COVID-19 RESOURCES

Message from the President:

Yesterday (4/9/2020) marked just one month since the first case of COVID-19 was confirmed in Louisiana. So much has change in thirty days in the lives of our clients/patients and our own. I marvel at how many of my routines are now different. We are all encountering rapidly changing circumstances that have both transient and potentially enduring mental health implications.

Frequently observed is the deep loneliness that accompanies physical distancing and self-isolation. Loneliness is not only prevalent among the larger public, psychologists experience the effects as well. I, myself, miss the hugs and affection so common in our beloved Louisiana culture. Self care for psychologists is more important in these changed circumstances than we have practiced in the past.

The inevitable uncertainties that come with a virus that is not yet well understood require us all to remain vigilant for new, verified information. LPA has established a task force, led by President-Elect Erin Reuther, to frequently update LPA's membership and the public via LPA's website. APA, through its website, is also informing psychologists about all aspects of COVID-19 and implications for practice. Another important source (monthly) for psychology is The Psychology Times, Louisiana's treasure for psychologists. Julie Nelson, editor (and past-president of LPA), fiercely maintains an "independent voice for psychology in Louisiana." The April issue has much to offer all of us on self care.

I urge all psychologists to routinely check LPA's website for updated information on COVID-19. Your state association is actively involved in supporting you and your communities in surmounting this public health challenge. We all need to remember, "we will get through this together.

W. Alan Coulter, Ph.D.

LPA President

Welcome to the Louisiana Psychological Association

Welcome and thank you for visiting the Louisiana Psychological Association, the state affiliate of the American Psychological Association. We hope you’ll browse our site and allow us to share with you the many exciting activities that we offer our members and the public, as we work to advance psychology as a science, as a profession, and as a means of promoting health, education, and human welfare.