In today’s world, Chrissy Teigen embodies the supportive mom-friend we all yearn for. She’s been refreshingly honest about her journey through fertility issues, the challenges of motherhood, and her need for support. Her authenticity and humor resonate deeply with many, and she doesn’t shy away from tough conversations.
In a heartfelt essay for Glamour, Teigen opens up about her experience with postpartum depression (PPD). Her candid narrative reflects feelings that many can relate to, making her decision to discuss it all the more significant. Teigen welcomed her daughter, Luna, with her husband, Jake, after facing public struggles with infertility. She describes Luna as “the perfect blend of both of us and uniquely her own,” and expresses immense love for her. Yet, despite having everything she thought would make her happy, she struggled with feelings of sadness.
Teigen reveals, “What everyone around me knew but I didn’t realize until December was that I was dealing with postpartum depression. How could I feel this way when my life seemed perfect? I found it hard to accept and hesitated to talk about it due to the potential backlash.” Her hesitance stems from previous experiences during her pregnancy, where casual comments about IVF became sensational headlines about her choices. Still, she recognizes the importance of sharing her journey, as it resonates with countless other women facing similar challenges.
Reflecting on her past, Teigen admits, “Before this, I had never heard anyone say, ‘I have postpartum depression.’ In the nineties, I associated PPD with tragic stories of women who didn’t love their babies. I adored Luna; I just didn’t understand my feelings.” This misunderstanding around PPD is common, as many people have a skewed perception of what it entails. Like many, she grappled with feelings of guilt and confusion, convincing herself that her unhappiness was merely due to fatigue or a shift in her identity.
Teigen candidly describes her day-to-day life during this period: “I kept cozy clothes in the pantry to avoid going upstairs when Jake was at work. There were spontaneous tears at the most unexpected moments.” Eventually, she sought professional help, driven by a desire to end her pain. “I was so tired of feeling this way, and I finally reached out for support,” she writes. Her doctor shared a list of symptoms that resonated with her, leading to a diagnosis of postpartum depression and anxiety.
The power of Teigen’s openness is evident; it offers comfort to those who might feel isolated in their battles with mental health. When dealing with anxiety and depression, sometimes the most comforting words are the simplest: “You’re not alone.” It’s crucial for women to share their experiences, as many silently navigate similar struggles, often at the expense of their mental well-being.
Teigen emphasizes her desire to raise awareness: “I want others to know that PPD can affect anyone, and there’s no shame in seeking help. I don’t want to pretend I have all the answers, as everyone’s experience is unique. However, I know that talking about it has been therapeutic for me.” This is her open letter to the world.
If you suspect you might be experiencing postpartum depression, it’s important to seek help. Resources like those found at Postpartum Progress can provide invaluable support.
In summary, Teigen’s candid essay sheds light on the often-misunderstood realities of postpartum depression. By sharing her story, she encourages others to break the silence surrounding mental health struggles, reminding us that we are not alone in our experiences.