Meghan Cliffel, once a working mother in New York City, faced a severe mental health challenge after the birth of her second child in 2015. Initially functioning outwardly well, a drastic change occurred on December 4th of that year, as Meghan began to experience delusions and believed she was being surveilled. This marked the onset of postpartum psychosis.
The condition led to distressing hallucinations, including seeing unsettling images on television. Her husband, Colin, recalled how Meghan’s crisis transformed their family dynamic overnight. He described the acute hours as an intense struggle, where Meghan’s behavior became unrecognizable, posing potential danger to herself and others.
In response to the escalating situation, Colin contacted emergency services. Meghan was admitted to Bellevue Hospital for two weeks, where she was prescribed Lithium. Two months later, she received a diagnosis of postpartum psychosis, a severe mental disorder distinct from postpartum depression.
What is Postpartum Psychosis?
Dr. Veerle Bergink, a psychiatrist from Mount Sinai’s School of Medicine, emphasizes that postpartum psychosis should be regarded as a psychiatric emergency. Characterized by extreme symptoms such as mania, racing thoughts, psychosis, and severe depression, these manifestations occur shortly after childbirth.
Though rare, suicide is recognized as a major cause of mortality among affected mothers. Infanticide, while extremely uncommon, has been reported in extreme cases. Bergink’s insights illuminate the gravity of the disorder, which affects an estimated 1 to 2 women per 1,000 births annually in the U.S., potentially impacting up to 9,000 mothers each year, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Notable Cases and Legal Implications
Postpartum psychosis gained public attention through the trial of Lindsay Clancy, who was accused of murdering her three children. Despite the acknowledgment of her diagnosis, a jury could not reach a verdict, resulting in a mistrial. The case highlighted the complexities of postpartum psychosis within legal systems, as discussed by Dr. Jennifer Payne, a reproductive psychiatrist from the University of Virginia School of Medicine.
Payne pointed out the enduring stigma around maternal mental health and emphasized the need for progress in handling such cases. She advocates for mental health treatment over criminal trials in situations where delusions drive actions, asserting that mismanagement by legal systems persists.
Recovery and Awareness
Following her recovery, Meghan Cliffel and her husband decided to expand their family. With an understanding of her past experiences, Meghan took preventive measures by using Lithium after the birth of their third child. This proactive approach led to a joyful experience, contrasting with previous struggles.
Meghan now shares her journey to raise awareness about postpartum psychosis, stressing that healing requires time and attention. Her message aims to remove the stigma and encourage affected individuals to seek help.
Support Resources
If you or someone you know is in emotional distress, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988. Additionally, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) HelpLine is available Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.–10 p.m. ET, at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264).
For those seeking further information, Dr. Veerle Bergink and Dr. Jennifer Payne are leading experts offering insights into postpartum psychosis, supported by organizations like Postpartum Support International.