Exploring New Approaches to Support Mothers with Postpartum Depression

<figure> <img alt="A new mom surrounded by friends" src="https://platform.vox.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/09/GettyImages-1371922107.jpg?quality=90&amp;strip=all&amp;crop=0,0,100,100" /> <figcaption> A wave of local programs is offering promising new ideas about how to deliver better care for postpartum depression. | Getty Images </figcaption> </figure> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">The trial of Lindsay Clancy, the Massachusetts mother accused of killing her three children, raises questions about the support available to mothers experiencing postpartum depression. Each year, at least 1 in 8 women who give birth in the US experience symptoms of depression, which may be an undercount.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">A jury is deliberating whether to convict Clancy for her children's deaths, focusing on whether she was in her right mind during the incident. The defense argues she was experiencing severe psychosis, which should affect her culpability.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Clancy’s case has highlighted the neglect of maternal mental health by the healthcare system. Despite the tragedy, there are emerging strategies to improve postpartum mental health care, including the involvement of peer support from other mothers.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Dr. Jessica Gaulton, a pediatrician and founder of FamilyWell Health, emphasizes the importance of having support from those who have experienced similar challenges. Programs across the US are implementing collaborative care models that incorporate peer coaches to assist new mothers.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">During the Clancy trial, the Maternal Mental Health Alliance proposed five steps to enhance postpartum care, including improved care coordination among healthcare providers. The collaborative care model has shown success in reducing symptoms of postpartum depression, but its implementation has faced challenges.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">In Los Angeles, a pilot program based on this model assigns new mothers a behavioral-health care manager to provide immediate support. Evaluations indicate that this approach outperforms traditional care standards.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Additionally, programs like MOMCare in Washington and FamilyWell Health in Massachusetts are experimenting with peer navigators and certified behavioral health coaches to offer support to new mothers. Studies show that this peer-driven approach can effectively reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Alma program in Colorado connects new mothers with trained mentors who provide emotional support, based on research indicating that peer support can significantly alleviate mental health symptoms.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Despite the positive developments, there are systemic challenges, including insufficient training for primary care providers and a lack of funding for maternal mental health programs. The Maternal Mental Health Alliance is advocating for increased federal funding to support these initiatives.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Connecting mothers to peer support can be beneficial, whether through organized programs or informal community connections. Most cases of postpartum depression are manageable and treatable, and many mothers find help and recovery through support networks.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Dr. Gaulton notes that while postpartum depression can be serious, it is treatable, and many individuals successfully navigate their symptoms with appropriate support.</p>