In a groundbreaking initiative to address the often-overlooked mental health challenges faced by new mothers, Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) and its mobile brand Ufone have joined forces with Oladoc, the country’s leading digital health platform, to launch a free, confidential mental health support service for post-partum women across Pakistan.
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The initiative, titled “Maa’iztar” (Respecting Motherhood), aims to provide accessible psychological counseling and emotional well-being resources to new mothers experiencing post-partum depression, anxiety, or other mental health concerns—conditions that affect a significant number of women but remain underdiagnosed due to stigma and lack of access.
| Program Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Service Name | Maa’iztar – Free Mental Health Support for New Mothers |
| Partners | PTCL, Ufone, Oladoc |
| Target Audience | Post-partum women (new mothers) across Pakistan |
| Service Type | Free, confidential psychological counseling via phone |
| Availability | Nationwide (through PTCL & Ufone networks) |
| Access Method | Dedicated helpline + Oladoc digital platform |
How the Service Works
New mothers can access free mental health support through:
- A dedicated toll‑free helpline operated by PTCL/Ufone, connecting callers to trained psychologists and mental health professionals.
- The Oladoc mobile app and website, offering scheduled video or audio counseling sessions at no cost.
All calls and consultations are completely confidential. The service is staffed by licensed female psychologists who specialize in post-partum mental health, ensuring culturally sensitive and empathetic care.
A Silent Crisis: Post‑Partum Mental Health in Pakistan
According to medical studies, nearly 20‑30% of new mothers in Pakistan experience post-partum depression or anxiety, yet the vast majority never seek help due to societal stigma, lack of awareness, or financial constraints. Left untreated, these conditions can affect maternal health, infant bonding, and family well‑being.
Leadership Perspectives
Hatem Bamatraf, President and Group CEO of PTCL & Ufone, stated: “Mental health is not a luxury—it is a necessity. A mother’s well‑being directly impacts the future of our children and our society. With ‘Maa’iztar,’ we are using our nationwide connectivity to break the silence around post-partum depression and offer a lifeline to women who suffer in isolation. This is a natural extension of our commitment to serving every Pakistani, not just with connectivity but with care.”
Dr. Azhar Mahmood, CEO of Oladoc, commented: “Post-partum mental health has been a neglected area for too long. By combining Oladoc’s digital health infrastructure with PTCL and Ufone’s unparalleled reach, we can ensure that every new mother—whether in a metropolitan city or a remote village—has access to professional mental health support without any financial barrier.”
Complementary Services
Beyond the free helpline, the partnership will also roll out:
- Online awareness campaigns featuring expert videos, articles, and interactive Q&A sessions on recognizing signs of post-partum depression.
- Training modules for healthcare workers, lady health visitors, and midwives to identify and refer at‑risk mothers.
- Community outreach through PTCL & Ufone’s franchise and customer service networks.
Commitment to National Health
This initiative aligns with the government’s vision of leveraging digital technology to improve healthcare access, as well as with international observances such as Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week. It marks one of the largest corporate‑led mental health programs in Pakistan’s history.
About PTCL & Ufone
Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) is the country’s largest integrated telecommunications provider, offering voice, data, and digital services to millions of customers. Ufone, its mobile subsidiary, is a leading cellular network with a nationwide footprint. Together, they are committed to enabling a digitally empowered Pakistan.
About Oladoc
Oladoc is Pakistan’s premier digital health platform, connecting patients with verified doctors across all major specialities. Through its website and mobile app, Oladoc facilitates millions of appointments annually, making quality healthcare accessible to all.
