The World is Talking about Maternal Mental Health- So HOW do I care for myself during the Lindsay Clancy Trial

The jury is out, literally... and we are waiting for the verdict of Lindsay Clancy's trial.

I've had session after session, friend after friend, colleague after colleague, all talking about Lindsay Clancy's trial. Women who have experienced a Perinatal Mood or Anxiety Disorder can feel this trial in the depths of their souls. I'm one of those women.

I've had the opportunity to work, train, and learn from individuals who have been impacted by this maternal mental health disorder. When I was first trained as a Perinatal Therapist, we talked about how rare this disorder was, and now, we have removed words that make it sound few and far between, with a prevalence rate of approximately 1 to 2 out of every 1,000 deliveries.

Lindsay's trial signals to all of the mothers and family members who have supported a mother why research-based training regarding perinatal mood and anxiety disorders should be accessible and required for individuals caring for mothers and families. Yet, as we know, there's work to be done.

If you are waiting for the verdict, you aren't alone. But, as a therapist and a survivor of a perinatal mood and anxiety disorder, I humbly ask that you consider the following as we prepare for and digest the verdict:

1. This trial is triggering. Anyone who has experienced a perinatal mood or anxiety disorder understands the systemic failures of the way that women are cared for. Please know that consuming content may be triggering and cause flashbacks, feelings of hopelessness, and may require mindfulness as you consume media.

2. If you want to make a change for mothers who need support. Please check out Postpartum Support International. They offer trainings to providers, support to families, and have actively made a change in the culture of Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders. Your dollars make a direct impact.

3. Check in with friends, colleagues, and mom groups before you want to process the trial. Remember, while processing may feel good to you, for others it can spur a trauma response. Maybe a "hey, can I talk to you about...." and get consent before jumping into the conversation.

4. Check on your friends. Even friends who write beautiful baby shower notes may be struggling, and she needs to know she's not alone.

5. Review empirically based resources, not your average TikTok expert, but real professionals with real training. https://postpartum.net/get-help/postpartum-psychosis-help/

6. Memorize these numbers, put them in your phone. You never know when you may need them:

   National Maternal Mental Health Hotline: 1-833-852-6262 (1-833-TLC-Mama)

   National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call 988

My favorite reminder comes from Postpartum Support International:

"You are not alone.

You are not to blame.

With help, you will be well."

From one mother to another,

Take care of yourself

Emily