CHRICED Calls for Integration of Mental Health into Maternal Healthcare in Kano
The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has called for the urgent mainstreaming of mental health services into maternal and child healthcare delivery in Kano State.
The call was made by the Executive Director of CHRICED, Comrade Dr. Ibrahim M. Zikirullahi, during a Community Accountability Town Hall Meeting on Mainstreaming Mental Health in Maternal and Child Healthcare Service Delivery held in Kano.
Addressing guests, stakeholders, and community advocates at the event, Dr. Zikirullahi described maternal and child mortality as a pressing concern in the state, stressing that mental health remains a neglected but critical component of maternal healthcare.
He noted that while efforts have been made over the years to reduce maternal and child mortality, insufficient attention has been given to the mental health challenges faced by pregnant women and nursing mothers.
According to him, many women experience pregnancy-related mental health conditions such as prenatal anxiety and depression, postpartum depression, and postpartum anxiety, but often lack access to adequate medical care and psychosocial support.
“In many of our communities, women suffering from these conditions are branded as mentally unstable, witches, or possessed by evil spirits. Instead of receiving support, they are stigmatized, abused, and isolated, which worsens their condition,” he said.
Dr. Zikirullahi further lamented that such stigma fosters a culture of fear and silence, discouraging affected women and their families from seeking professional help. He also pointed out that many hospitals and Primary Healthcare Centres in Kano State lack the capacity to provide comprehensive mental health services to pregnant women and nursing mothers.
He therefore urged the Kano State Government, community leaders, health practitioners, and other stakeholders in the maternal and child healthcare sector to prioritize mental health as part of broader efforts to improve maternal and child health outcomes.
He recommended that mental health screening, counselling, and psychosocial support services be integrated into antenatal and postnatal care protocols across the state.
Dr. Zikirullahi emphasized that ensuring the mental well-being of mothers is essential to raising healthy children and building stronger communities.
The CHRICED Executive Director also expressed appreciation to MISEREOR KZE of Germany for its continued support in advancing the health and well-being of women and children in Kano State.
He commended the Board, staff, partners, and volunteers of CHRICED for their commitment to promoting democratic and accountable governance and improved public health outcomes.
The town hall meeting brought together key stakeholders to discuss strategies for integrating mental health services into maternal and child healthcare delivery in Kano State.
