Postpartum Therapy for Teen Mothers
Provide group therapy for 30 pregnant and new teen mothers in Kenya suffering from postpartum depression
A counsellor provides group therapy to teen mums suffering from postpartum depression.
To discuss supporting this project contact jo@justpeoples.org
In Kenya, approximately 1 in 5 girls aged 15 to 19 become pregnant or mothers, totaling an estimated 330,000 teen pregnancies each year, mainly in low-income settings (UNFPA, 2022). These young girls encounter significant mental health vulnerabilities during pregnancy and postpartum. Stigma and isolation lead to school dropout, strained relationships and difficulties managing motherhood which are compounded by traumatic deliveries and high instances of intimate partner violence. These adverse factors lead to many teen mothers being at high risk of postpartum depression, affecting both maternal and infant well-being, especially among those in low-resource communities. Despite their urgent need for assistance, the young women struggle to access or afford mental health support in Kenya.
Group therapy provides solidarity, and tools for emotional resilience for teen mothers.
This project addresses the mental health challenges faced by at-risk youth in Huruma, a low-resource community in urban Nairobi. 30 pregnant and postpartum teen girls will receive intensive group therapy and psychosocial support over 12 weeks, treating and preventing postnatal depression.
Through group therapy, art therapy and psychoeducation, participants will develop resilience and coping skills. By enhancing self-awareness and self-confidence, they’ll learn to become confident caregivers for themselves and their children. Additionally, a supportive community among participants will be established, promoting comfort, solidarity and resilience as they journey into motherhood together.
The CYRM and Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale will be utilised at the start and end of the program to monitor the girls’ progress and ensure they’re getting the care they need to become healthy mothers with mental and emotional stability, and strong professional and peer support networks.
Meet Bright
the man bringing quality mental healthcare to any Kenyan who seeks it.
As a child, Bright grew up in a violent home, which led to a harrowing suicide attempt by his mother who didn’t have access to appropriate mental health care. Growing up in a single-parent household after his parents' separation, he confronted the daunting challenges of a society that not only stigmatised suicide but also failed to provide support. Bright is now a driving force for advocating for improved national mental health policies and care throughout Kenya. He offers hope, and healing, and plays a pivotal role in breaking down the barriers of stigma, one person at a time. Learn more.