Sajo Foundation, inspired by the enduring legacy of Savitribai Phule and Jyotirao (Jotiba) Phule, is dedicated to empowering new mothers by prioritizing their mental health. The Phule couple, known for their pioneering social reforms, established a maternity home for widows facing societal stigma after pregnancy, offering them dignity, safety, and emotional support. This visionary work serves as the foundation for Sajo’s mission today.
The journey of the Sajo Foundation began with its founder and director’s personal experience with postpartum depression (PPD). In navigating the emotional challenges of new motherhood, she realized a startling truth: nearly 99.99% of new mothers face mental health struggles, yet only a minuscule 0.01% understand what they are going through. In a country like India, where mental health remains taboo, the lack of information and support leaves countless mothers vulnerable, impacting not only their well-being but also their children’s long-term development.
We envision a world where every new mother is supported emotionally, mentally, and socially, creating a foundation for healthier families and resilient communities.
Our mission is to break the stigma around maternal mental health and provide new mothers with the resources, care, and community they need to thrive during and after their transition into motherhood.
Provide Mental Health Support: Offer counseling, therapy, and peer support to help mothers navigate postpartum depression, anxiety, and other emotional challenges.
Raise Awareness: Educate families, healthcare providers, and communities on the importance of maternal mental health and early intervention.
Encourage Health-Seeking Behavior: Empower mothers to seek help without fear of judgment or stigma, ensuring they have access to the care they need.
Strengthen Mothers’ Resilience: Equip mothers with tools and resources to build emotional resilience, confidence, and self-worth.
Engage Families and Communities: Foster a supportive environment by involving fathers, extended families, and community leaders in maternal mental health initiatives.
Advocate for Systemic Change: Promote policies that recognize maternal mental health as a fundamental aspect of women’s health and well-being, aligned with the values of Savitribai and Jyotirao Phule.
At Sajo Foundation, supporting mothers means building a healthier, more equitable society. By addressing the mental health of new mothers, we honor their strength, protect their dignity, and contribute to the well-being of future generations.