Grant: Project Grant - Priority Announcement: Population and Public Health

Maternal mental health (MMH) disorders are a major public health concern associated with poor pregnancy and mental health outcomes for parents and their infants. While MMH affects people of different racial and ethnic backgrounds, research consistently shows that Black mothers have a higher chance of experiencing MMH issues during pregnancy and after childbirth. Poor MMH interferes with fetal development leading to a higher rate of preterm birth and low birth weight. Postpartum MMH issues affect the emotional wellbeing of Black mothers and their ability to connect and respond to their infants needs. Untreated postpartum MMH issues increase the possibility for self and infant harm. The lack of support in the postpartum period and stress related to racism and socio-economic disadvantage experienced by Black mothers/birthing parents exacerbate MMH vulnerability, undermine their coping and resilience, and hinder their ability to seek help. Despite research showing Black mothers/birthing parent vulnerability to poor MMH, little is known about the risk and protective factors of MMH among Black mothers/birthing parents in Canada. This lack of research specifically on Black mothers/birthing parents in Canada makes it difficult to identify priority areas for intervention and policy action to optimize and improve maternal mental health outcomes for Black mothers/birthing parents and their children. The aim of this study is to understand the determinants of MMH among Black mother/birthing parents and to co-create a culturally safe best practices model to promote mental health equity using a mixed method approach. Identifying the determinants of MMH of Black mothers/birthing parents is critical to guiding the development of tailored and effective mental health interventions and programs to promote and support maternal mental health during and after pregnancy.