Perinatal Mental Health and Relational Support

African American women are 3-4 times more likely to die from pregnancy or childbirth-related causes than their White counterparts. Yet, little research has focused on Black women’s mental health during the perinatal period. We aim to understand how mental health in general and perinatal mental health are conceptualized and experienced by Black women and community-based doulas/birth workers. We also hope to explore the role of adjunctive treatments for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.

Selected Publications

Nelson, T., Tomi, C. L., & Gebretensay, S. B. (in press). (Re)framing strength: How Superwoman Schema may impact perinatal anxiety and depression among African American women. Women’s Health Issues, Advanced online publication. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.whi.2023.05.003

Nelson, T., & Ernst, S. C., & Watson-Singleton, N. N. (2023). Perinatal complications, poor hospital treatment, and positive screen for postpartum depressive symptoms among Black women. Journal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities, 10(3), 1371-1378.  https://doi.org/10.1007/s40615-022-01322-6