Matter Conference – A Milestone in Perinatal Mental Health in Central Alentejo

On June 20th, the main auditorium of the University of Évora hosted the Matter Conference, marking a pivotal moment in the rollout of the Matter project—a groundbreaking initiative focused on the screening, identification, and early intervention in perinatal mental health, developed in close collaboration with all primary healthcare units in Central Alentejo.

Promoted by the University of Évora, in partnership with ULSAC and supported by the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation and the CHRC – Comprehensive Health Research Centre, the Matter project is built upon three key pillars:
🔹 The automation of screenings integrated into the clinical record system (SClínico);
🔹 The training of health and social care professionals in perinatal mental health;
🔹 And the organization of regular multidisciplinary meetings to support clinical practice and case sharing.

The main goals of the conference were to:
✅ Highlight the importance of implementing innovative programs that strengthen coordination between primary, hospital, and social care services;
✅ Present preliminary results from the project’s implementation;
✅ Share testimonies from professionals on the impact and paradigm shift brought by the Matter project;
✅ And promote practical insight through a live demonstration of patient journeys in perinatal mental health.

The event brought together dozens of professionals directly involved in the project, offering a unique space for reflection, critical assessment, and exchange of experiences. It also opened up discussions on proposals for improvement and adaptation to local contexts, as well as the potential for national replication and expansion of the model.

It was, without a doubt, an inspiring and transformative day for all who believe in a more integrated, effective, and compassionate approach to perinatal mental health. 

Follow the Matter Perinatal project on Instagram @matter.perinatal and find more information at www.matter.uevora.pt.