Postpartum psychosis: A mother's story of hope after the Clancy case

Postpartum psychosis, a rare mental health emergency affecting 1 to 2 per 1,000 women after delivery, is highlighted by the Lindsay Clancy trial, where a Massachusetts mother faces charges for strangling her three children. A key question is whether the condition drove her actions. Bridget María Chesterton, a 52-year-old history professor, shares her story of experiencing postpartum psychosis after giving birth in 2019, including disorganized thinking and delusions that led to two hospitalizations. She credits antipsychotic medication and strong family support for her recovery, and wants to dispel misconceptions about the disorder. While most women with postpartum psychosis do not harm their children, severe cases can lead to self-harm or harm to offspring. Chesterton’s family took quick action when symptoms appeared, and her mother advises others to be vigilant for signs of the illness.