07/29/2026
The Lindsay Clancy case is asking more of us than an opinion.
It’s asking us to reflect.
Nothing about discussing perinatal MH excuses what happened or diminishes the devastating loss of three children. But we can hold that grief while asking what this case requires us to learn.
When a mom shares the thought that frightens her most, what happens next matters.
Intrusive thoughts during pregnancy & postpartum are common. They can be unwanted, distressing & entirely inconsistent with who a mother is or what she wants. But every presentation is different, symptoms can change& careful assessment matters.
Public testimony indicates that Lindsay did share concerning thoughts & received professional care. We can't know everything she disclosed or how it was understood. But we know shame changes how people share.
Sometimes the first disclosure is only the smallest, safest piece someone can say aloud. She may call it “anxiety.” She may soften her words. She may watch your face before deciding whether it’s safe to tell you more.
If you are another mother, friend,family member: How do you speak about women who are struggling? Do your reactions create safety?
If you're a partner: Can you hear the truth without dismissing, minimizing or reacting in a way that makes her retreat? Are you noticing changes in her sleep, mood, behaviour functioning?
If you're a provider: Are you prepared when a mom shares something concerning? Distinguish intrusive thoughts from an escalating emergency? Know when to consult, where to refer, how to follow up?
Can you take it seriously enough to act-while remaining calm enough that she keeps talking?
Our response can open the door to the rest of the truth or close it.
To the mother carrying something she is afraid to name: You're not bad or broken because a thought frightens you. Pls tell someone safe the whole truth, not only the version that feels acceptable to share. There are people trained to understand & support you.
And to those receiving that truth:
Do not minimize or shame it back into silence.
Stay calm.Ask the next question.Seek support.Follow up.
Mothers need to tell us what is happening.
We need to show we are capable of hearing it.