Pregnancy and the postpartum period bring a mix of emotions, from excitement to stress and anxiety. However, for many women, these experiences can also lead to depression. In an effort to support perinatal mental health, researchers at Marquette University are collaborating on innovative projects. Dr. Kimberly D’Anna-Hernandez and Dr. Sabirat Rubya, along with their colleagues, are developing new interventions and exploring the role of technology in providing social support. Their work aims to address disparities in maternal and infant health outcomes, particularly in Milwaukee. Let's delve into the details of their research and its potential impact.
Addressing Perinatal Mental Health Disparities
Exploring the impact of perinatal mental health on maternal and infant health outcomes.
Perinatal mental health plays a crucial role in the well-being of both mothers and infants. However, racial and ethnic disparities in maternal and infant health outcomes persist, particularly in Milwaukee. Dr. Kimberly D’Anna-Hernandez and her team are working to address these disparities by developing interventions and support systems.
Their interdisciplinary prevention program aims to strengthen existing interventions, expand the perinatal mental health workforce, and create a collaborative network for resources. By focusing on cultural responsiveness and accessibility, they hope to improve outcomes for expecting parents and their babies.
The Importance of Early Intervention
Highlighting the transformative impact of early intervention for perinatal mental health.
Early intervention is key to addressing perinatal mental health concerns. Dr. Kavitha Venkateswaran emphasizes the significance of preventing or reducing mental health issues during pregnancy, as it can lead to improved health outcomes for both mothers and infants.
Through their program, the team aims to equip expecting parents with the necessary skills and tools to navigate the challenges of pregnancy and postpartum. By providing support before the baby arrives, they hope to mitigate stress and promote a healthier mother-child bond.
Harnessing Technology for Social Support
Exploring the role of technology in providing social support for perinatal mental health.
Dr. Sabirat Rubya's research focuses on the use of technology to enhance social support for new and expecting mothers. Online communities have become valuable sources of support, particularly for marginalized communities.
However, existing online platforms have their limitations, such as misinformation and lack of timely response during mental health crises. To address these challenges, Rubya plans to develop an app that combines storytelling and educational content. The goal is to provide personalized and trustworthy support to users from diverse backgrounds.
Collaboration for a Brighter Future
Highlighting the collaborative efforts to support perinatal mental health.
The research conducted by Dr. D’Anna-Hernandez, Dr. Rubya, and their colleagues exemplifies the power of interdisciplinary collaboration. By bridging the gap between psychology, data science, and healthcare, they aim to make a meaningful impact on perinatal mental health.
Through partnerships with local clinics and community members, they are able to gather valuable insights and ensure their interventions are culturally relevant and accessible. Together, they strive to create a brighter future for expecting parents and their children.
