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Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) affect 1 in 5 birthing parents in Canada (Dennis et al., 2017), yet stigma and lack of screening often prevent early intervention. This topic reinforced my role in mental health advocacy and compassionate care.

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Many birthing individuals, particularly Indigenous and marginalized populations, have histories of trauma (e.g., residential schools, intimate partner violence). Trauma-informed care (TIC) is essential for equitable, respectful maternity care.

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This experiential learning tool powerfully illustrates the impact of colonialism on Indigenous Peoples, including its lasting effects on maternal and child health. By walking participants through the historical and ongoing injustices faced by Indigenous communities, the exercise fosters empathy, awareness, and critical reflection. In the context of maternal health, it highlights how systemic displacement, cultural suppression, and intergenerational trauma have contributed to disparities in care, access, and outcomes for Indigenous mothers and families. This artifact underscores the importance of culturally safe, trauma-informed, and equity-driven healthcare practices.

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Artifact # 2- Muse Art Gallery Project-Reclaiming Birth

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Artifact # 2- Muse Art Gallery Project-Reclaiming Birth

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This digital art piece portrays an Indigenous mother in a culturally safe birth space, symbolizing the restoration of traditional birthing knowledge and practices. "Reclaiming Birth" challenges the legacy of colonial medical systems by centering Indigenous voices, midwifery, and community led care. It highlights the importance of decolonized maternity care care that respects cultural identity, promotes autonomy, and upholds the sacredness of birth. The artwork serves as a powerful visual statement advocating for respectful, relational, and culturally grounded approaches to maternal health for Indigenous families.

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"Safety is not the absence of threat, but the presence of connection." by Dr. Gabor Maté.

This quote powerfully reframes the concept of safety in healthcare, particularly in relational nursing and trauma-informed care. It emphasizes that true healing environments are built not just by removing harm, but by fostering authentic, compassionate connections. In contexts such as maternal-child nursing, mental health, or culturally safe care, this quote reminds us that meaningful human connection is foundational to patient well-being, resilience, and trust.

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Article 1- A mixed-methods study of trauma- and violence-informed care in maternity settings serving Indigenous women in Canada." Birth: Issues in Perinatal Care

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Article 1- A mixed-methods study of trauma- and violence-informed care in maternity settings serving Indigenous women in Canada." Birth: Issues in Perinatal Care

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Article 2-Enhancing health equity for Indigenous women in Canada

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Article 2-Enhancing health equity for Indigenous women in Canada

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Enhancing health care equity with Indigenous populations: evidence-based strategies from an ethnographic study - BMC Health Services Research

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Background Structural violence shapes the health of Indigenous peoples globally, and is deeply embedded in history, individual and institutional racism, and inequitable social policies and practices. Many Indigenous communities have flourished, however, the impact of colonialism continues to have profound health effects for Indigenous peoples in Canada and internationally. Despite increasing evidence of health status inequities affecting Indigenous populations, health services often fail to address health and social inequities as routine aspects of health care delivery. In this paper, we discuss an evidence-based framework and specific strategies for promoting health care equity for Indigenous populations. Methods Using an ethnographic design and mixed methods, this study was conducted at two Urban Aboriginal Health Centres located in two inner cities in Canada, which serve a combined patient population of 5,500. Data collection included in-depth interviews with a total of 114 patients and staff (n = 73 patients; n = 41 staff), and over 900 h of participant observation focused on staff members’ interactions and patterns of relating with patients. Results Four key dimensions of equity-oriented health services are foundational to supporting the health and well-being of Indigenous peoples: inequity-responsive care, culturally safe care, trauma- and violence-informed care, and contextually tailored care. Partnerships with Indigenous leaders, agencies, and communities are required to operationalize and tailor these key dimensions to local contexts. We discuss 10 strategies that intersect to optimize effectiveness of health care services for Indigenous peoples, and provide examples of how they can be implemented in a variety of health care settings. Conclusions While the key dimensions of equity-oriented care and 10 strategies may be most optimally operationalized in the context of interdisciplinary teamwork, they also serve as health equity guidelines for organizations and providers working in various settings, including individual primary care practices. These strategies provide a basis for organizational-level interventions to promote the provision of more equitable, responsive, and respectful PHC services for Indigenous populations. Given the similarities in colonizing processes and Indigenous peoples’ experiences of such processes in many countries, these strategies have international applicability.

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Canada is facing a youth mental health crisis, with rising rates of anxiety, depression, and suicide. Early intervention and child-centered care are critical.

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This clip captures the emotional complexity experienced by children, illustrating that feelings like sadness and joy often coexist. It challenges the notion that children should always be happy, and instead validates the full spectrum of emotions as essential to development, healing, and connection. In nursing and child health care, this artifact reinforces the importance of emotional literacy, empathy, and creating safe spaces where children can express and process their feelings without judgment.

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The Circle of Sadness Scene - INSIDE OUT (2015) Movie Clip

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Artifact # 2- Signs of Childhood Anxiety

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Artifact # 2- Signs of Childhood Anxiety

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This artifact sheds light on the often-overlooked symptoms and early detection of anxiety in children, such as irritability, sleep disturbances, physical complaints, or withdrawal. By recognizing these subtle signs, caregivers and healthcare providers can intervene early, offering support and appropriate care. It emphasizes the importance of trauma-informed, developmentally sensitive approaches in pediatric nursing. Understanding childhood anxiety not only fosters emotional well-being but also strengthens the nurse–child relationship through empathy, trust, and relational inquiry.

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Artifact # 3-Hold On" by Chord Overstreet

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Artifact # 3-Hold On" by Chord Overstreet

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This song resonates deeply with youth experiencing emotional pain, loneliness, or mental health challenges. Its heartfelt lyrics offer a message of hope, reminding listeners that their struggles are seen and that better days are possible. "Hold On" serves as a powerful tool in mental health nursing, encouraging connection, empathy, and the importance of simply being present for someone in distress. It affirms that hope, even in its quietest form, can be life-saving.

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Cultural safety ensures respect for diverse traditions in postpartum care, particularly for immigrant, Indigenous, and refugee mothers.

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This showcases diverse cultural practices surrounding postpartum care, such as the 40-day rest period observed in many communities worldwide. It highlights the global recognition of the postpartum period as a sacred time for healing, bonding, and support. By illustrating how various cultures honor new mothers with rest, nourishment, and community care, this artifact promotes culturally sensitive nursing and challenges Western norms that often overlook postpartum recovery. It encourages a deeper understanding of holistic, culturally grounded maternal health practices.

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A colorful, abstract embrace accompanied by the words “It’s okay to crumble… you will get through this and it will make you stronger.” It speaks directly to the sacred strength found in vulnerability.

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Quote by Dr. Robin Lim:
"Postpartum care should honor the mother’s culture, not just clinical protocols." This quote emphasizes the importance of culturally respectful and individualized care in the postpartum period. Dr. Lim advocates for care models that recognize the emotional, spiritual, and cultural needs of new mothers, rather than focusing solely on standardized medical routines. In nursing practice, this quote reinforces the value of relational inquiry, cultural humility, and listening to what matters most to the mother, fostering more meaningful and holistic maternal care.

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This artifact symbolizes the often invisible burden of perinatal depression. The title, "The Weight of Silence," reflects how many birthing individuals suffer in silence due to stigma, fear, or lack of support. It brings attention to the emotional heaviness carried behind closed doors, highlighting the urgent need for open conversations, early screening, and compassionate care. By giving voice to the unspoken, this piece advocates for greater awareness and de-stigmatization of perinatal mental health struggles.

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A drawing of a mother holding her baby while shadows loom over her.

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Article 1-Youth mental health trends in Canada.

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Article 1-Youth mental health trends in Canada.

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Article 2- Promoting optimal mental health outcomes for children and youth

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Article 2- Promoting optimal mental health outcomes for children and youth

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Article 1-Cultural safety in maternal care

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Article 1-Cultural safety in maternal care

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The National Collaborating Centre for Indigenous Health (NCCIH)

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NCCIH - National Collaborating Centre for Indigenous Health > Home > NCCIH in the News

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Article 2-The impact on midwives and their practice after caring for women who have a traumatic childbirth: A systematic review

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Article 2-The impact on midwives and their practice after caring for women who have a traumatic childbirth: A systematic review

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LGBTQ+ parents face barriers in maternity and pediatric care, from heteronormative language to discrimination. Advocacy is key for inclusive nursing practice.

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This artifact affirms that the foundation of a family is love, not necessarily biology, gender, or traditional roles. It normalizes and celebrates diverse family structures such as single parents, LGBTQ+ families, adoptive families, and multigenerational households challenging narrow societal norms. In nursing and healthcare, it serves as a reminder to provide inclusive, respectful care that honors each family's unique makeup and lived experiences. This message supports equitable, nonjudgmental practice and fosters belonging for all patients and families.

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Artifact # 2-Song – "Same Love" by Macklemore

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Artifact # 2-Song – "Same Love" by Macklemore

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This song is a powerful anthem for LGBTQ+ rights, celebrating love, identity, and equality including in the context of parenthood. By challenging stereotypes and advocating for acceptance, "Same Love" affirms that LGBTQ+ individuals and couples are equally capable of creating loving, nurturing families. In healthcare, this artifact encourages inclusive, affirming care that respects diverse family structures and identities. It serves as a reminder that all families regardless of gender or orientation deserve dignity, recognition, and support.

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MACKLEMORE & RYAN LEWIS - SAME LOVE feat. MARY LAMBERT (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

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This image depicts a rainbow-striped heart, representing LGBTQ+ pride, next to a stethoscope, symbolizing healthcare. The combination of these elements conveys a powerful message about the importance of inclusive and affirming healthcare for LGBTQ+ individuals.

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Article 1-Best practices for LGBTQ+ family care.

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Article 1-Best practices for LGBTQ+ family care.

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Frontiers | Review of current 2SLGBTQIA+ inequities in the Canadian health care system

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Gender identity and sexual orientation are determinants of health that can contribute to health inequities. In the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, belonging to a sexua…

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Artifact # 2- "Fight Song" by Rachel Platten

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Artifact # 2- "Fight Song" by Rachel Platten

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This song symbolizes personal strength, resilience, and the journey toward healing. In the context of healthcare and recovery, "Fight Song" serves as an anthem of empowerment especially for individuals overcoming emotional or physical challenges. Its message of reclaiming one's voice and inner power resonates deeply with those navigating difficult circumstances, reminding us that even small acts of courage can ignite meaningful change and recovery.

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Rachel Platten - Fight Song (Official Video)

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Quote by Postpartum Support International
"You are not alone. You are not to blame. With help, you will be well." This quote offers a compassionate and empowering message for individuals experiencing postpartum mood and anxiety disorders. It challenges stigma by affirming that perinatal mental health struggles are common, not a personal failing. In nursing and maternal care, this quote serves as a guiding principle for trauma-informed, empathetic support—reminding both caregivers and clients that healing is possible through connection, understanding, and accessible care.

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Article 1-Prevalence of perinatal and postnatal anxiety disorders in Canada

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Article 1-Prevalence of perinatal and postnatal anxiety disorders in Canada

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Prevalence of antenatal and postnatal anxiety: systematic review and meta-analysis - PubMed

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BackgroundMaternal anxiety negatively influences child outcomes. Reliable estimates have not been established because of varying published prevalence rates.AimsTo establish summary estimates for the prevalence of maternal anxiety in the antenatal and postnatal periods.MethodWe s …

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Article 2-"Screening for perinatal mood disorders in Canada: A stepped-wedge trial of nurse-led interventions

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Article 2-"Screening for perinatal mood disorders in Canada: A stepped-wedge trial of nurse-led interventions

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Dennis, C.-L., Falah-Hassani, K., & Shiri, R. (2017). Prevalence of antenatal and postnatal anxiety: Systematic review and meta-analysis. The British Journal of Psychiatry, 210(5), 315–323. https://doi.org/10.1192/bjp.bp.116.187179

Postpartum Support International. (n.d.). You are not alone. You are not to blame. With help, you will be well. Postpartum Support International. Retrieved July 20, 2025, from https://www.postpartum.net/

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Browne, A. J., Varcoe, C., Lavoie, J., Smye, V., Wong, S. T., Krause, M., Khan, K., Tu, D., Godwin, O., Fridkin, A., & Lavoie, J. G. (2016). Enhancing health care equity with Indigenous populations: Evidence‑based strategies from an ethnographic study. BMC Health Services Research, 16, Article 544. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12913-016-1707-9

Doering, J. J., Wichman, C. L., Laszewski, A., Kuehn, S., & Ke, W. (2023). Perinatal psychiatric practitioner consultation program delivers rapid response to OB/GYN practitioners. Birth, 50(4), 764–772. https://doi.org/10.1111/birt.12722

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Arruda, W., Bélanger, S. A., Cohen, J. S., Hrycko, S., Kawamura, A., Lane, M., Patriquin, M. J., & Korczak, D. J. (2023, October 25). Promoting optimal mental health outcomes for children and youth. Paediatrics & Child Health, 28(7), 417–436. https://doi.org/10.1093/pch/pxad032

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Bingham, J., Kalu, F. A., & Healy, M. (2023, August 21). The impact on midwives and their practice after caring for women who have a traumatic childbirth: A systematic review. Birth: Issues in Perinatal Care. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1111/birt.12759

National Collaborating Centre for Indigenous Health. (2025, May 6). Indigenous physician and educator Dr. Terri Aldred appointed Academic Lead at the National Collaborating Centre for Indigenous Health. NCCIH in the News. Retrieved July 20, 2025, from https://www.nccih.ca/595/NCCIH_in_the_News.nccih?p=8

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Rainbow Health Ontario. (n.d.). Rainbow Health Ontario. Retrieved July 20, 2025, from https://www.rainbowhealthontario.ca

Comeau, D., Johnson, C., & Bouhamdani, N. (2023, July 18). Review of current 2SLGBTQIA+ inequities in the Canadian health care system. Frontiers in Public Health, 11, Article 1183284. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2023.1183284