Master’s Research Project
Perinatal Mental Health
Mental health issues are common during the perinatal period, but in spite of their prevalence, many people with perinatal mental illness remain undiagnosed and untreated. A number of barriers prevent these people from seeking help. The most common barriers include a lack of knowledge about the conditions and their symptoms, and feelings of shame and stigma.
This is the introductory animation in a planned series of three animations about perinatal mental health.
These animations created for pregnant and postpartum people aim to address these barriers. They can help inform those who are undiagnosed, and encourage them to seek treatment. They can educate those who have already been diagnosed so they can be better informed and more involved in the decision-making process for treatment. Furthermore, people can share the material with family and friends, which will help their social support circles become more knowledgeable and more understanding about their condition.
Tools
Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe After Effects
Audience
Pregnant and postpartum people
Committee
Prof. Shelley Wall,
Prof. Marc Dryer,
Dr. Simone Vigod
Process
Script
I began by researching, then writing and revising a script.
Storyboards
After many iterations of the script, I started storyboarding to plan out an outline of the narrative. I sketched the storyboards in a simple style to allow me to go through quick iterations, and so I wouldn’t get too attached to any ideas that needed to be changed.
Character Design
Since the characters are a very important component of my animation, I experimented with several different visual styles to find designs that are relatable, inclusive and appropriate. I wanted characters who were likable and who the audience could sympathize with.
The final character design then helped to inform the overall visual look of the animation.
