Beyond the Perinatal Period: Using The Color Purple to Explore Maternal Mental Health Throughout the Lifespan

This article explores the expansive concept of maternal mental health, challenging the conventional time-limited definition that focuses solely on the perinatal period. The authors argue for a broader, lifespan-oriented understanding that encompasses the ongoing psychological challenges faced by mothers beyond the first postpartum year. Using the 2025 film adaptation of The Color Purple as a case study, the article delves into key aspects of maternal mental health, including the long-term impact of complex trauma, the importance of community support, and the intersection of economic mobility with mental health. The authors conclude the article with a discussion on how counselors can use themes from The Color Purple to provide comprehensive maternal mental healthcare.