World Maternal Mental Health Day 2026
The Global Alliance for Maternal Mental Health is committed to driving change for mothers, babies, and families around the world. In line with this year's theme, we are calling on you to ACT.
C
onsider what can be done to better support mothers and babies
A
cknowledge the human and economic costs of perinatal mental health problems
T
reat mental health with the same importance as physical health during maternity
Acknowledge
the human and economic costs of perinatal mental health problems
The impact of untreated perinatal mental health problems is impossible to ignore. The statistics paint an alarming picture. At least 1 in 5 women experiencing perinatal mental health challenges globally, with even higher numbers in low and middle income countries. Beyond the numbers, there are people whose lives are affected but whose stories often go unheard. Without the right care and support, perinatal mental health problems cause profound suffering and reduced functioning amongst mothers and their families, and can affect the baby’s development, including poor growth and development. Economic impact in healthcare costs, lost productivity, and support services reach billions of dollars.
Pakistan
30% of women affected
Estimated Lifetime Cost
USD16.5Bn
​USD16.6Bn including maternal suicide
Quality of life
USD15.8Bn
Productivity
low due to unemployment and low wages
Healthcare costs
low due to lack of provision
Brazil
1 in 5 women affected
82% of women with perinatal depression are unidentified
Estimated Lifetime Cost
USD4.86Bn
​USD4.93Bn including maternal suicide
Quality of life
USD2.6Bn
Productivity
USD2.16Bn
Healthcare costs
USD50Mn
South Africa
1 in 3 women affected
Estimated Lifetime Cost
USD2.8Bn
​USD2.9Bn including PTSD and maternal suicide
Quality of life
USD1.8Bn
Productivity
USD1.1Bn
Healthcare costs
USD3.5Mn
Consider
what can be done to better support mothers and babies
We can make a difference for mothers, babies, and families across the world. Social policy to improve the lives of mothers and families during pregnancy and very early childhood, and investing in perinatal mental health has proven to be effective, from grassroots initiatives to nationwide programmes. At the Global Alliance for Maternal Mental Health, we have seen the power that national alliances have to raise awareness, influence policy, and implement collaborative initiatives.
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Integration
Integrating mental health in maternal care ensures that health systems are ready to detect and respond to patient needs.
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Training
When healthcare workers at all levels are trained, they can identify and respond effectively to maternal mental health needs.
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Awareness
Although it’s such a common experience, maternal mental health remains largely stigmatized and misunderstood.
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Safe Spaces
​Places of work, worship, and other community spaces should uphold a culture of care and support. Safe spaces promote healing.
Lived Experiences
Mothers, fathers, families including children can bring a rich understanding. Their stories should be shared and their voices heard.