09/11/2026
There is something uncomfortable about discussing the Lindsay Clancy case. A family lost three children and is living with the consequences of something none of us can fully understand from the outside. So many people are watching, asking questions, and forming opinions.
As we think about this family's pain, and the attention around this case, we're left with this question -
What happens when a family's suffering becomes visible only after it has become a crisis?
Perinatal mental health conditions are among the most common complications during pregnancy and the postpartum period. About 1 in 5 parents experience a perinatal mental health condition, and many never receive the support they need.
Most of these stories will never make the news. They look like the mother who is functioning, but barely. The parent who keeps saying, “I'm fine,” because everyone else seems to need something from her. The person experiencing frightening thoughts and is terrified of what those thoughts might mean. The family member who notices something is wrong but doesn't know whether they're seeing exhaustion, anxiety, depression, intrusive thoughts, or something more serious.
Thankfully, sometimes someone notices early enough, takes the pain seriously, and ensures that they receive care. That's the part we hope isn't lost in the conversation - a deeper commitment to noticing suffering before it becomes an emergency.
Postpartum mental health care should be part of how we care for families from the beginning, not something we talk about only after a tragedy.
Maybe one of the gentlest and most important things we can do with this painful moment is become more willing to ask:
“How are you really doing?”
and be prepared to stay long enough to hear the real answer.
National Maternal Mental Health Hotline
Call or text 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262)
Postpartum Support International (PSI)
Call 1-800-944-4773 or text HELP to 800-944-4773
