Slate Daily Feed Care & Feeding | How to Get Through (Or Help Someone With) Postpartum Depression
Nov 17, 2025
Danielle Lerner, a journalist and advocate for perinatal mental health, shares her personal journey with postpartum depression. She unveils the often-hidden symptoms and discusses how shame can hinder seeking help. Danielle emphasizes the importance of preparing ahead of time and finding support, like postpartum doulas and peer networks. She offers practical tips for both those experiencing postpartum challenges and their loved ones, highlighting that mental health struggles are temporary and there’s hope through community and treatment.
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Real Panic Attacks Led To Asking For Help
- Danielle described undiagnosed postpartum depression after her first child and severe panic attacks after her second.
- She recalled wanting to escape and thinking her family would be better off without her, which led to seeking specialized help.
Postpartum Can Surprise Any Parent
- Postpartum depression can happen to anyone regardless of baseline personality or prior happiness.
- Danielle stressed that knowing risk factors and expecting the possibility helps catch problems sooner.
Symptoms Vary Widely Beyond 'Sadness'
- Postpartum mood disorders appear in many forms beyond sadness, including mania-like swings and panic attacks.
- Danielle emphasized that recognition requires awareness because symptoms vary widely.