Maternal health in Europe shows widespread strain and career penalties

A survey of about 9,600 mothers in 12 European countries found more than two-thirds felt mentally overloaded, with roughly one-third reporting anxiety and 20% reporting depression.

A Europe-wide study has found high levels of maternal ill health alongside ongoing workplace and childcare pressures. The survey covered about 9,600 mothers across 12 countries and reports that many respondents feel mentally overloaded. Over the past year, around one-third said they experienced anxiety, one-fifth reported depression, and 18% reported burnout. Health officials and advocacy groups say current policies and supports have not kept pace with these findings. Key findings: - The study surveyed about 9,600 mothers in 12 European countries and reports widespread mental strain among respondents. - More than two-thirds of participants said they felt mentally overloaded; roughly 33% reported anxiety, 20% reported depression, and 18% reported burnout over the past year. - Over one quarter of respondents said having a baby negatively affected their careers; 6% reported being fired or forced out after pregnancy or becoming a new mother, with variation across countries. - Work and childcare pressures differed by country: high shares returned full-time in some places (for example, 74% in Portugal, 62% in Sweden) while in others more mothers reduced hours or left the workforce; the cost of childcare was a notable factor for many in the UK. Summary: The study indicates widespread mental health strain among mothers together with persistent impacts on careers and work patterns, and it documents variation between countries. Authorities and advocacy groups called for expanded mental health services and better workplace supports, but formal policy responses are undetermined at this time.