The trial of a Massachusetts mother accused of murdering her three children has made national headlines, sparking widespread discussions about postpartum mental health. 

Lindsay Clancy, 36, is on trial for murder in the January 2023 strangulation deaths of her three children – Cora, 5; Dawson, 3; and Callan, 8 months – at the family’s home in Duxbury, Massachusetts. 

The prosecution argues that Clancy allegedly planned the killings, but her defense argues that she is not guilty because she lacks criminal responsibility, which is more commonly known as an insanity defense. Defense attorney Kevin Reddington says Clancy was suffering from postpartum depression and psychosis at the time of the killings.

Reddington rested the defense’s case on Aug. 21, on the 18th day of testimony in the trial. As we await the verdict, here’s what to know about postpartum depression and psychosis. 

What is postpartum psychosis? 

While postpartum depression (PPD) is more commonly recognized, fewer people talk about postpartum psychosis, a more severe illness occurring in approximately one to two in 1,000 mothers after giving birth.

In September 2022, Lindsay sought care for anxiety and was ultimately prescribed an antidepressant, her ex-husband Patrick Clancy testified in a Massachusetts courtroom on July 27. But her anxiety was not improving, he added, so her prescriber told Lindsay to double the dose.

Clancy was admitted to a facility for suicidal thoughts and to a psychiatric hospital after confiding in her husband that she had “intrusive thoughts” about harming the children or something bad happening to them, he testified on July 27. 

Symptoms of postpartum psychosis include, according to Cleveland Clinic:

• Rapid mood swings, such as mania, hypomania or depression
• Depersonalization (having an “out-of-body” experience) 
• Insomnia
• Paranoia
• Thoughts of self-harm or harming others (especially their newborn)

Postpartum psychosis is curable, but experts say that more research is required to improve the understanding, prevention and treatment of the condition. 

“Postpartum psychosis is always considered an emergency needing immediate care and attention, whereas postpartum depression, OCD and anxiety may be able to be treated in an outpatient setting,” Jessica MacNair, a licensed professional counselor specializing in postpartum and perinatal mood disorders, previously told USA TODAY.

The case has prompted some mothers to share their own stories on social media of hallucinations, paranoia and suicidal thoughts after childbirth. Some recalled feeling out of touch with reality and battling intrusive thoughts. The conversation highlights the lack of “mental health support for new parents (because) the emphasis is on the health of the child,” Abbie Goldberg, a professor of psychology at Clark University, previously told USA TODAY.

How to seek support for postpartum symptoms 

Postpartum psychosis is rare, but help is available.

Seek professional support from a trusted provider if symptoms of depression persist beyond two weeks or interfere with daily functioning. They can help you figure out a treatment plan to manage your symptoms. 

If you have thoughts of hurting yourself or someone else, or other severe symptoms of postpartum depression, seek help immediately. 

If you or someone you know needs mental health resources and support, please call, text or chat with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or visit 988lifeline.org for 24/7 access to free and confidential services. 

Contributing: Melina Khan, Charles Trepany