Mind the Mum project reports high levels of perinatal mental health issues

A study conducted under the EU-funded Mind the Mum project has identified significant depression and anxiety symptoms among mothers in Cyprus and Slovenia. Led by the Cyprus University of Technology (CUT) since 2024, the research surveyed over 1,000 mothers using questionnaires and focus groups. Results show that half of the women in Cyprus reported symptoms requiring further evaluation, with many describing their birth experiences as painful. The project involves a partnership of academic, healthcare, and human rights experts from Cyprus, Slovenia, Poland, and Spain. An interim meeting for the project took place on June 10–11 at the University of Gdansk in Poland to review these findings. Researchers are advocating for systematic screening, improved healthcare structures, professional training, and integrated public health policies. The scientific coordinator for the project is Dr. Eleni Hadjigeorgiou, an associate professor of midwifery at CUT.