Maternal Vitality

Maternal Vitality is a project that emphasizes the importance of maternal and whole-family thriving. With our Maternal Vitality innovation, we are developing a culturally responsive, research-based maternal depression protocol for and with Black women.

The goal is to establish a culturally responsive research-based therapy protocol specifically designed for Black women, developed both for them and with their input. Maternal Vitality aims to equip them with strategies to enhance their overall health and well-being for themselves and their families.

Maternal depression is a complex condition, encompassing mental, physical and psychological symptoms experienced by women during and after pregnancy. It may include symptoms associated with general depression and anxiety, but also “Baby Blues”, anger, and even chronic stress. Maternal depression is a significant contributor to the ongoing maternal and infant mortality crisis in the United States particularly affecting Black women.

Black women in the United States face significant disparities in maternal health outcomes, including higher rates of maternal mortality and morbidity. These disparities are rooted in systemic racism and bias within the healthcare system, and they are exacerbated by the role of social factors such as access to healthcare, poverty, and discrimination.

Our ongoing Maternal Vitality Study is currently shaping our Maternal Depression protocol! Discover more about the study and how you can participate below and on our research studies page.