As we celebrate Black History Month, we honor the groundbreaking contributions of Dr. Cheryl L. Woods Giscombé, PhD, RN, a distinguished professor, psychiatric nurse practitioner, and social and health psychologist.
Her pioneering research on Black women’s mental health, mindfulness, and stress reduction has shaped how scholars and medical professionals understand the unique challenges Black women face in their daily lives.
Dr. Giscombé is a fellow of the American Academy of Nursing, the Academy of Behavioral Medicine, and the Mind & Life Institute, as well as an elected member of the National Academy of Medicine.
Her work has been consistently funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and other major health organizations, solidifying her as a leader in the field of mental health and wellness for Black women.
Unpacking the Black Superwoman Schema

Dr. Giscombé’s most influential contribution is her research on the Black Superwoman Schema (BSS)—a framework that identifies how the pressure to embody strength and resilience can lead to chronic stress, poor sleep, unhealthy coping mechanisms, and physical health risks.
She found that while many Black women embrace the “Superwoman” role as a survival strategy, the long-term effects can be detrimental to mental and physical well-being.
Through her studies, Dr. Giscombé not only identified these stressors but also developed a tool to assess them, giving healthcare providers a culturally relevant way to address the unique mental health challenges Black women face.
Empowering Black Women Through Mindfulness and Self-Care
Beyond her research, Dr. Giscombé has translated her findings into actionable solutions for Black women to better manage stress and prioritize self-care.
She developed A Black Woman’s Guide to Coping with Stress, a resource offering culturally relevant mindfulness techniques and wellness strategies rooted in over two decades of research.
Her work underscores a critical message: Black women can be strong, but they must also allow themselves to rest.
She emphasizes that seeking support, practicing self-compassion, and engaging in stress reduction techniques are not signs of weakness but necessary steps toward long-term wellness.
Elevating Black Scientists and Their Impact
Dr. Giscombé’s influence extends far beyond academia—her research is changing the narrative about Black women’s mental health and equipping them with the tools to prioritize well-being.
As we recognize Black scientists shaping our future, it’s vital to celebrate and cite their work, ensuring that research continues to uplift and empower Black communities rather than diminish them.
Through her pioneering work, Dr. Cheryl L. Woods Giscombé is breaking cycles of stress and redefining self-care for Black women, proving that strength and rest can coexist.
As we continue celebrating Black History Month, let’s honor and support the Black innovators shaping our future.