We launch Co-Elna, a research project to identify needs, goals and new challenges affecting motherhood and serious mental disorders

The “Co-Elna” project is a joint initiative by Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu (FSJD) and Salut Mental Catalunya (SMC) on “Maternity and serious mental disorders: needs, goals and new challenges”. The research aims to raise awareness of the situation of women with mental health problems and those who are also mothers.

Thanks to the 'Connecta' call of the “la Caixa” Foundation's Social Observatory, Co-Elna is seeking to address the needs of this often neglected group, offering practical answers to the difficulties that they face. The project also has the support of the TECSAM Network for innovation and research in mental health in Catalonia.

Take part in the research!

We are starting the project with a survey that will allow us to collect important data about the needs and challenges of mothers with a mental health diagnosis. The survey is now available at this link.

We invite all women over 18 years of age who have been diagnosed with a mental health issue to participate in the research, whether they are mothers or not.Your voice is important and will help us to develop better strategies for assistance and support and build a more inclusive future with greater respect for mental health and motherhood.

A project co-created by women and for women, with its own image

The name “Co-Elna” symbolises the project's co-creation process, in which women with their own experience of mental health issues are the protagonists. These women are part of the team of co-creators, a group that works with research professionals to respond to the needs of mothers with mental health problems.

"Elne" also refers to the 'Mothers of Elne' initiative, possible thanks to the work of nurse Elisabeth Eidenbenz, who helped save hundreds of children born to refugee mothers during the war.

In this way, Co-Elna wants to convey the hope and support that every woman deserves when she becomes a mother, regardless of the difficulties she may face.

With this new name and new concept, the project also introduces a new logo and brand image, representing the values ​​of solidarity, co-creation and support that inspire the initiative.

A cultural outing with a message of strength

Last Friday, 10 January, during the countdown to the start of the project and the launch of the survey, the women who are the co-creators of the project attended the play "The Mothers of Elne", a production that pays tribute to the courage of the women who lived through this period. An emotional and transformative experience that helps the spectator to better understand the challenges faced by mothers in difficult situations.