08/18/2026
There is a heaviness that many of us are carrying as we watch the Lindsay Clancy case unfold. As a mom, a member of this community, and a psychotherapist, I know how deeply stories like this can affect us. We can’t change what happened. We can’t go back and rewrite the moments that led to such unimaginable tragedy. And we certainly cannot know every detail of another person’s mental health journey from the outside.
But we can use moments like this to talk about something that matters deeply, maternal and postpartum mental health. Postpartum depression, anxiety, and postpartum psychosis are real mental health conditions. They can be frightening, overwhelming, and sometimes difficult for the person experiencing them and for the people who love them to recognize. Postpartum psychosis is a psychiatric emergency that requires immediate professional intervention. (Postpartum Support International (PSI))
This case has understandably brought up fear, grief, anger, questions, and even personal memories for many mothers and families. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed by the coverage, it is okay to step away from social media. You do not have to consume every detail to care about the people involved.
And if you are a mom who is struggling, please don’t wait until things feel unbearable to ask for help. You deserve support. Your family deserves support. And asking for help is not a sign of weakness or failure.
If you or someone you love is experiencing postpartum depression, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, severe mood changes, or concerns about postpartum psychosis, please reach out to a qualified mental health or medical professional.
Helpful resources:
• Postpartum Support International : education, support, and connections to perinatal mental health resources. (Postpartum Support International (PSI))
• Postpartum Support International: Postpartum Psychosis Resources (Postpartum Support International (PSI))
• National Maternal Mental Health Hotline call or text 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262), available 24/7. (Maternal and Child Health Bureau)
• SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-4357 for mental health and substance-use treatment referrals. (samhsa.gov)
If you are in immediate danger or experiencing a psychiatric emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
You are not alone. You are not a bad mother for struggling. And you do not have to carry the heaviness by yourself. 🌻
