In low- and middle-income countries, faith leaders have a strong influence on behavior, and faith-based organizations (FBOs) provide a notable share of healthcare services. At the same time, stigma and harmful traditional practices sometimes masquerade as faith-related and may be perpetuated by religious leaders and faith communities. With 84% of the world’s population affiliated with a religion, engaging faith communities in addressing mental health issues, including maternal mental health (MMH), is crucial. The period before, during, and after birth is a particularly crucial time to address mental health concerns for mothers.

On February 3, 2022, MOMENTUM Country and Global Leadership held a webinar, which you can watch below, to share the results from a landscape assessment of faith actors and FBO involvement in maternal mental health. Speakers and participants discussed how to leverage the influence and reach of faith communities to help women facing mental health issues during the critical perinatal period.

Speakers included:

• Karen Hoehn, Director, International Development, Bonstar
• Suzanne Stalls, Director, Maternal and Newborn Health, MOMENTUM Country and Global Leadership

The discussion was moderated by Allison Flynn, Senior Health and Nutrition Program Advisor, World Relief.