A new European study has found that 7 out of 10 mothers in the UK feel overwhelmed, with nearly half experiencing mental health challenges like anxiety or depression. The findings highlight a critical gap in support systems for mothers, particularly in comparison to other European nations. This isn’t just a personal struggle; it’s a societal issue with long-term implications for families and the workforce.
The Scale of the Problem
The research, conducted by Make Mothers Matter across 12 European countries, shows the UK ranks poorly in supporting maternal wellbeing. Specifically:
- 71% of UK mothers report feeling overloaded, exceeding the European average of 67%. This means mothers in Britain are under more pressure than many of their peers elsewhere.
- 47% struggle with mental health issues, including burnout, a figure slightly below the European average of 50%, but still alarmingly high.
- 31% believe motherhood negatively impacted their careers, higher than the 27% average, with Ireland reporting the worst impact at 36%. This demonstrates a systemic disadvantage for mothers in the UK job market.
This isn’t just about stress; it’s about systemic failures in acknowledging and supporting the unique pressures faced by mothers. The study suggests that Britain’s underfunded postnatal care system leaves many women isolated and struggling in silence.
Why This Matters
The UK’s poor performance isn’t accidental. Experts point to chronic underinvestment in early childhood services, especially compared to northern European countries. Mothers are expected to shoulder disproportionate caregiving and household burdens, leading to burnout and mental health issues. The stigma around seeking help further compounds the problem, as many women fear judgment or lack access to adequate care.
The findings also reveal a subtle but important trend: UK mothers are more likely to have partners who take paternity leave compared to the European average (11% vs 25%). While positive, this doesn’t offset the overall lack of systemic support.
Urgent Need for Systemic Change
Experts, including perinatal psychiatrist Prof. Alain Gregoire, argue that routine mental wellbeing checks for mothers in GP and NHS services are essential. Greater investment in accessible “talking therapies” and community-based peer support groups could also provide much-needed relief. Angela McConville, CEO of the NCT parenting charity, emphasizes the need for a more cohesive and well-funded postnatal care system.
The current situation isn’t new. Make Mothers Matter notes that maternal stress levels have increased since 2011 due to economic insecurity, work-life imbalances, and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Department of Health and Social Care acknowledged the need for support but provided a vague response, highlighting existing investments in mental health services. However, experts argue that these efforts aren’t enough to address the deep-rooted systemic failures that leave too many UK mothers struggling alone.
In conclusion, the study provides stark evidence that the UK is failing its mothers. Addressing this crisis requires not just increased funding, but a fundamental shift in how society values and supports motherhood.
