Chrissy Teigen’s Journey with Postpartum Depression
Postpartum depression doesn’t discriminate. It can affect anyone, even those in the spotlight. One of the most courageous and influential individuals to openly discuss her battle with postpartum depression is Chrissy Teigen.. Her vulnerability in sharing her struggles has shed light on a common but often silent condition that many mothers face.
Chrissy Teigen, known for her roles as a supermodel, cookbook author, and mother, as well as being the wife of singer/songwriter John Legend, might appear to have it all. However, the 31-year-old host recently shared about her ongoing struggle with a serious health issue. “I’ll just say it: I have postpartum depression,” she wrote in a recent Instagram post. Further details about her experience were shared in a personal essay for Glamour magazine’s April issue.
In her essay, Teigen opens up about returning to work following the birth of her daughter, Luna, in April 2016. “I was different than before. Getting out of bed to get to the set on time was painful,” she writes. “My lower back throbbed; my shoulders—even my wrists—hurt. I didn’t have an appetite.” Teigen also recalls being short-tempered, rarely leaving the house when she wasn’t working, and experiencing spontaneous bouts of tears. She described most of her days as being spent in the exact same spot on the couch, with little energy to make it upstairs to her bed.
Her journey took a turn when she her doctor for a physical. Her doctor read the signs of postpartum depression, and she checked off every single one.
One of the reasons Teigen chose to speak openly about her struggle is to reassure people that it can happen to anyone, and she wants those who have it not to feel embarrassed or isolated. According to the American Psychological Association, up to 1 in 7 new mothers will experience this mood disorder, which can persist for weeks or even months if left untreated.
Sometimes, new mothers will brush it off as the “baby blues,” but postpartum depression is different, says Joseph Goldberg, MD, a psychiatrist. The baby blues, which affects 80% of new moms, involve passing feelings of sadness or tearfulness. In contrast, postpartum depression is a form of major depression that endures for a more extended period and typically arises in women who are predisposed to it.
So… What are the Signs Postpartum Depression?
Postpartum depression is a mood disorder that affects one in eight women, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It develops during pregnancy or up to a year after childbirth, and typically involves feelings of extreme sadness and exhaustion. For those affected, it can interfere with their ability to care for themselves and their newborn.
There’s no one cause of PPD; it may be a result of:
- Hormone and brain chemistry changes after childbirth
- Sleep deprivation
- Coping with caring for a newborn
- Major life style change
- Lack of support
Symptoms of Postpartum Depression
PPD can be different for everybody. The condition shares many hallmark similarities to depression, like a lack of interest in activities that once brought you joy and feeling constantly low. PPD is different from the “baby blues,” a term used to describe the short-term exhaustion and worry that almost every new mother feels.
Other symptoms of PPD include:
- Crying more than usual
- Frequent headaches or body aches
- Eating too much or too little
- Avoiding familiar people and places
- Feeling a lack of attachment towards your baby
- Anxiety about causing harm to your baby
- Feeling guilty or fearful about your role as a mother
Typically, PPD symptoms manifest within one week to one month after childbirth, although they can also appear just before or immediately after delivery.
For Teigen, “I was different than before. Getting out of bed to get to set on time was painful. My lower back throbbed; my shoulders—even my wrists—hurt. I didn’t have an appetite. I would go two days without a bite of food …”
Speaking up is often the first step towards feeling like yourself again. Teigan shared, “I don’t want to pretend like I know everything about postpartum depression, because it can be different for everybody. But one thing I do know is that—for me—just merely being open about it helps. This has become my open letter,” says Teigen.
The Path of Healing
Thankfully, there are effective treatments for postpartum depression, including talk therapy and antidepressant medications. Both are integral components of Teigen’s treatment plan, and while there are still challenging days, she told Glamour, “all of the really bad days are gone.” Additionally, there are medications safe for breastfeeding mothers to use.
Overcoming postpartum depression is a journey, and it’s okay to seek help. Taking care of a newborn is difficult work. It is difficult to find time to take even basic care of yourself, like sleeping, eating, and bathing, when your baby needs constant attention.
At Therapists of Southern California, we are committed to helping you find healing, happiness, and strength. Our therapy sessions will empower you to:
- Understand and manage the symptoms of postpartum depression.
- Develop coping strategies for daily challenges.
- Build a strong support network.
- Rediscover joy and fulfillment in motherhood.
- Regain a sense of self and confidence.
We recognize that every individual’s journey through postpartum depression is unique. Our therapists tailor treatment plans to address your specific needs and concerns, ensuring you receive the most effective support.
Our therapists provide a safe and nurturing space where you can express your feelings, fears, and anxieties without judgment. You’re not alone in this journey, and we’re here to walk with you every step of the way.
You don’t have to face postpartum depression alone. Chrissy Teigen’s journey is a testament to the power of seeking help and finding healing. Take the first step toward your own path to recovery by contacting us today.
Please call or text us at (949) 245-7442 or book an appointment online or enter your information below in the Contact Us Now form below. We’re looking forward to working with you.