By Make Mothers Matter
Motherhood remains an under-explored and insufficiently addressed topic in both policy-making and societal discourse leading to unmet needs and unseen challenges. To bridge this gap, we conducted a survey, gathering insights from 9,600 mothers across 11 EU countries and the UK.
The findings were a revelation on many fronts, showing just how much work still needs to be done. A few striking figures:
35% of fathers in 12 European countries have not taken their paternity leave, even though it is their right. Meanwhile, 50% of mothers report struggling with at least one mental health issue. Cultural norms, workplace pressures, financial and social barriers – so many obstacles still stand in the way of true equality in caregiving.
That’s exactly why we do this work at Make Mothers Matter: to listen, study and bring to light the realities of motherhood – without judgement, but with a call to action. Because change is possible. Because we all have a role to play in building a more inclusive and just society.
Here is the full report which we hope will serve as a tool to drive meaningful conversations and policy change.
From what mothers told us, it’s clear that maternal mental health cannot wait. The pressure on them has never been greater. General instability, rigid work structures, and the rising cost of living are worsening their stress levels. The time to act is now—to break the stigma, provide proper support, and ensure that maternal mental health is a political priority.
In response to this need, we’ve just launched a petition calling to End the Maternal Mental Health Crisis in Europe NOW.
We ask you to support us by signing this petition
Only together can we hope to move the needle.