“Society is deeply unsettled by mothers who struggle.” – Dr. Sarah Lang
A week after the birth of my second child, I found myself curled up in my closet, overwhelmed and sobbing. My newborn’s cries echoed outside the door, but my distress drowned them out. I was engulfed by an overwhelming wave of despair and felt that the best course of action was to hide from the intense burden of motherhood. I chastised myself, thinking, What is wrong with you? Why can’t you just care for your baby? But in that moment, I simply couldn’t. It was terrifying.
Fortunately, this episode was brief—a fleeting instance of the so-called “baby blues” that faded as quickly as it appeared. However, for many women—statistics suggest one in five—the feelings of despair deepen and overshadow their lives, sometimes leading to self-harm or harm to their children. Yet, many remain silent, battling these feelings in isolation due to the persistent stigma surrounding mental health, especially among mothers.
We often fear that speaking out will reveal our perceived failures as mothers or partners. The pressure to appear capable and composed can be overwhelming. However, remaining silent only perpetuates the suffering of women facing postpartum depression (PPD).
In the compelling documentary When the Bough Breaks, we follow the journey of Amanda Ellis, who shares her ongoing struggle with PPD six years after her son’s birth. The film, co-produced by Amanda, Sophia Thompson, and Jordan Harris, aims to break the silence surrounding PPD and its even more severe counterpart, postpartum psychosis (PPP). The result is a raw and impactful film that sheds light on an issue that has long been shrouded in darkness.
When the Bough Breaks, narrated by celebrity Brooke Shields, illustrates that PPD and PPP can affect mothers from all backgrounds and that these conditions manifest differently in each woman. The accounts shared by mothers from diverse experiences—including well-known figures like chef Aarti Patel and singer Jenna Wilson—resonate deeply with anyone who has felt overwhelmed by parenting:
- “I felt like I was drowning.”
- “I constantly wished I could escape.”
- “I was consumed by guilt over my perceived failures.”
- “I just wanted my old life back.”
As the emotional toll of PPD escalates, so do the troubling thoughts:
- “My child would be better off with someone else as their mother.”
- “I knew I should be bonding, but I couldn’t force a smile.”
- “I felt incapable of caring for her, and worse, I didn’t want to.”
In one poignant moment, doula Mia Thompson describes PPD as akin to having a barrier between mother and child: “Even when holding them, the connection feels nonexistent.”
Despite being a common yet often overlooked complication, PPD is frequently dismissed by healthcare providers. Obstetricians focus primarily on physical recovery, while pediatricians concentrate on the infant, neglecting the mother’s mental health. After the physically demanding experience of childbirth, the expectation that a new mother should instantly adapt to her role is unrealistic.
In many cultures, such as in India, a robust support system surrounds new mothers, allowing them the time they need to heal and adjust. In contrast, new mothers in the U.S. often face increased isolation, which can exacerbate the risks associated with PPD and PPP.
Amanda emphasizes the importance of community support for mothers in distress: “Having a supportive network is crucial. Let them know they are not alone. Just being there—even if they can’t reciprocate—can make a world of difference.” Simple gestures, like offering meals or babysitting, can significantly alleviate the burden on a new mother.
Symptoms of PPD can include insomnia, appetite changes, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, and overwhelming feelings of inadequacy. Women suffering from PPD often recognize that something is amiss yet fall into self-blame, questioning their worth as mothers. In more severe cases of PPP, new mothers may experience hallucinations that could lead to tragic outcomes.
When the Bough Breaks offers an eye-opening exploration of the profound impact PPD and PPP can have, even on seemingly well-adjusted women. The film includes harrowing testimonies from mothers who have tragically lost their children due to PPP, as well as the heart-wrenching aftermath experienced by the families left behind.
Amanda’s research and interviews about PPP have reshaped her understanding of the illness. “These are people just like us, grappling with unimaginable pain that they didn’t choose,” she reflects.
One such mother, Emma Reynolds, suffered from PPD and PPP and spent time in prison for the death of her infant, Lily. In the film, we hear her recount her experiences with haunting clarity. After her release, Emma became an advocate for Postpartum Support International, striving to raise awareness. Tragically, she later succumbed to her own struggles.
It is vital to amplify the voices of those who feel unheard and convey the message that help exists. Various treatment options—from therapy to acupuncture to medication—can alleviate the symptoms of PPD, and no one should fear judgment for seeking help. Reaching out for support is essential.
In a world dominated by polished social media narratives, Amanda urges us to remember the real stories behind the images. “Sharing our truths allows others to open up,” she explains. There should be no shame in discussing struggles, as honesty can provide solace to others facing similar challenges.
If you or someone you know is grappling with postpartum depression or related disorders, seek assistance from resources such as Postpartum Support International or visit their community page for connection. For those considering home insemination, resources like the Cryobaby At-Home Insemination Kit can also provide valuable information. For more expert guidance, check out Dr. Mia Thompson, your fertility expert, who offers insight into these crucial issues. Additionally, the NHS provides excellent information on pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, When the Bough Breaks is a must-watch documentary that confronts the realities of postpartum depression and psychosis. It serves to educate, destigmatize, and encourage open dialogue among mothers facing these challenges.