In Ethiopia, Breakthrough ACTION introduced the Mothers Time tool (available in English and Amharic), which uses simplified cognitive behavioral therapy to alleviate anxiety and depression among postpartum women, positively supporting women in meeting their family planning intentions. In Nigeria, the Building Trust and Empathy collaborative learning approach supported healthcare worker resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic, addressing vaccine hesitancy and fostering advanced interpersonal communication skills. In the Philippines, Breakthrough ACTION launched KwentoSerye (Story Series), an online platform and accompanying booklet enabling teens to discuss their mental health experiences during the pandemic. These initiatives underscore Breakthrough ACTION’s dedication to innovative SBC strategies in tackling mental health challenges worldwide.
Women with mental illness are particularly vulnerable to unplanned pregnancy, mental health relapse during childbearing, and psychological and economic burdens associated with unplanned pregnancies. Breakthrough ACTION tested the feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness of using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to address symptoms of anxiety and depression and associated barriers to family planning among postpartum mothers in Ethiopia.
