Reese Witherspoon and Other Celebrity Moms Open Up About Their Struggles with Postpartum Depression: An Honest and Inspiring Insight

Reese Witherspoon, Behati Prinsloo, and other celebrity moms have openly shared their experiences with postpartum depression. Witherspoon explained in an interview with Jameela Jamil on her "I Weigh" podcast in April 2020 that she had a different postpartum experience with each of her children. She had mild postpartum with one child, severe postpartum with another that required heavy medication, and no postpartum at all with another.

Witherspoon has a daughter, Ava, and a son, Deacon, from her previous marriage to Ryan Phillippe. She also has a son, Tennessee, from her estranged husband Jim Toth, whom she separated from in 2023. Following her decision to stop nursing her children, she experienced significant hormonal fluctuations during her struggle with postpartum depression.

Prinsloo, on the other hand, received support from her husband, Adam Levine, during her battle with postpartum depression. She was formerly a Victoria's Secret Angel.

Prinsloo, who has three children with her husband, the rocker, expressed gratitude for his unwavering support during a June 2019 Today appearance. She acknowledged that feeling helpless and overly emotional is common among young and new mothers. Although she considers herself fortunate to have not experienced it severely, she noted the potential for a downward spiral.

Keep scrolling for details on how other celebrity mothers have overcome their PPD, from Brooke Shields to Shay Mitchell.

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Celebrity Moms Sharing Their Postpartum Depression and Anxiety Experiences: Reese Witherspoon and More

Witherspoon has a daughter, Ava, and a son, Deacon, with her ex-husband Ryan Phillippe. She also has a son named Tennessee with her estranged husband Jim Toth, whom she separated from in 2023. Following the cessation of nursing her children, she experienced intense hormonal fluctuations during her struggle with PPD.

Prinsloo, a former Victoria's Secret Angel, received support from her spouse, Adam Levine, during her PPD struggle.

On a June 2019 Today appearance, Prinsloo expressed gratitude for her husband's unwavering support, stating, "He was consistently there for me, pulling me out of those difficult moments." She acknowledged that as a young and new mother, it is common to experience feelings of helplessness and heightened emotions. Although she considers herself fortunate not to have experienced severe symptoms, she recognizes the potential for a downward spiral.

Keep scrolling for details on how other celebrity mothers have overcome their PPD, from Brooke Shields to Shay Mitchell.

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Katie Stevens

The Bold Type alum gave birth to her first child, daughter Rome, in March 2023 with husband Paul DiGiovanni. However, she struggled with postpartum depression months after the birth.

During a July 2023 appearance on the "Hold My Hair?" podcast, she revealed that she had never heard much about postpartum depression, except for extreme cases portrayed in the media. She felt overwhelmed and had difficulty asking for help, which made her feel "stuck" and unsure of her identity. She would often find solace in her closet where she would go to cry.

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“It was a truly emotional experience,” Taylor reflected on her time on set with Yahoo! Entertainment. This production took place six months after she had given birth to her second child. "Playing the role of Inez became a therapeutic outlet for me because I was finally able to let myself cry openly. I hadn't been able to do that before because when you're a super mom, that's how your kids perceive you - as a superhero who is strong all day, every day. But when I stepped onto the set, I could put aside my cape, have my therapy session, and just let my tears flow. Any inner battles or struggles I had been facing, I could pour it all into Inez and give it my all. And that's what made it so authentic and genuine - every emotion, every tear, every scream, it was all real.”

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Mena Suvari

The American Beauty actress discussed her struggle with postpartum depression after giving birth to her son Christopher in April 2021. Despite battling with it daily, she revealed that she still feels a sense of unease.

During a November 2022 episode of the "Broad Ideas" podcast, Suvari recounted how she recalls expressing her need to leave the house to her husband, Michael Hope. He offered her the option to go for a walk, but she felt uncertain about being able to do so. Suvari explained that she felt overwhelmed and desperate to do something for herself but felt unable to leave. Eventually, she had to learn to let go and prioritize her own well-being.

Though it can still be challenging for the Loser actress to be apart from her child, she has come to realize that constantly being present is not necessary for raising a well-rounded individual. Suvari also honestly discussed her process of alleviating guilt following an unexpected C-section, as she and Hope had initially intended for a natural at-home birth.

"I still endure the pain from that experience, and I have every right to feel these emotions," she articulated. "As mothers, we have the right to experience these emotions, and even though I am blessed with a beautiful, healthy baby and an amazing husband, and we successfully navigated through the hospital journey, I still believe it is permissible to reserve some space within myself to grieve over not having the birth I envisioned."

The actress recounted her struggles following the birth of her daughter Evelyn in October 2015. In an interview with Vanity Fair in October 2022, she revealed that she faced difficulties in promoting her movie Suffragette. Despite her challenges, she made the decision to push through and fulfill her professional obligations. The actress credits a combination of various factors, including the support and assistance from those around her, as her guiding light during that time.

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Ashley Iaconetti

When questioned about her postpartum anxiety during an Instagram Story Q&A in April 2022, the Bachelor in Paradise alum revealed that her intrusive thoughts worsened following the birth of her son, Dawson. She shared, "During the initial weeks, I was constantly plagued by the thought that my life was too perfect, and wondered when tragedy would strike my family. I felt like it had to happen soon because I was experiencing such immense happiness." Additionally, she admitted to developing obsessive-compulsive tendencies at night, repeatedly checking the security of her son's Snow Sack. "My mind is always consumed with thoughts of him," she added.

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Jordan Pruitt

“My postpartum depression and anxiety started to take hold around six months,” the Voice alum shared on Instagram in March 2022. “I found it difficult to smile without understanding the reason behind it. Sleep eluded me as I constantly worried about the possibility of my daughter suffocating during the night. Motherhood is an immense challenge, but I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world.”

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Janet Von Schmeling

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Olivia Munn

After giving birth to my son Malcolm almost four months ago, I still feel discomfort in my hips. Additionally, my postpartum anxiety persists and is incredibly challenging. Nevertheless, I pushed myself to get out of bed and attended my first capoeira lesson today. I shared this experience with my Instagram followers in March 2022, hoping to inspire others. Returning to martial arts allowed me to regain a sense of my former self, and I am determined to continue on this path.

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Jade Roper

"I battled with a deep depression for the initial six months after Brooks was born, and nobody would have suspected," the Bachelor in Paradise alum shared with her Instagram followers in January 2021. "I stumbled my way through, learning as I went, and embracing the process of getting to know my baby and witnessing the transformations and growth of my children and husband. I suppose I share these imperfect moments in the hope of forging genuine connections across this social platform."

After giving birth to her son Brooks in July 2019, the Bachelor alum "resumed work almost immediately," as she revealed exclusively to Us two years later, admitting that she only took a couple of days before returning to social media. "Due to the chaotic circumstances surrounding his birth, everyone wanted to talk to me. I remember thinking, 'Alright, I guess this is my responsibility. It's what supports my family. I suppose I have to do it,'" Roper explained in March 2022. "However, I experienced postpartum depression after his birth, and I strongly believe that the pressure to return to work contributed to it."

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Rachel Platten

The singer went through a deeply agonizing struggle with her mental well-being after giving birth to her daughter Sophie in September 2021, as she disclosed on Instagram in March 2022. Platten shared, "The phase following childbirth ... consisted of seemingly endless days that felt insurmountable, ceaseless tears that I couldn't control, and seemingly never-ending nights when my frightened body refused to let me sleep. I explored every possible approach, even those that previously intimidated me, and now I finally feel a consistent sense of happiness, tranquility, strength, and genuine optimism. In fact ... it's more than just optimism, it's a CERTAINTY. I am certain of my resilience. I am certain of my value. I am certain of my identity and I wholeheartedly love myself."

Lauren Burnham

In January 2022, the Bachelor alum took to Instagram Stories to share her honest experience with postpartum journey, stating that it has been quite challenging. She revealed her struggle with postpartum depression (PPD) and the difficulty she faced in effectively managing her time and energy. However, she mentioned that she is gradually starting to feel better.

The Virginia native shared exclusively with Us in February 2022 that after giving birth to Senna and Lux, she battled with "intense" postpartum depression, facing "some struggles." Burnham attributed her difficulties to the drastic hormonal changes she experienced. "My hormones were all over the place, soaring high and then crashing down rapidly. It made it challenging for me to cope with situations that I would normally handle with ease."

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Jamie Chung

In December 2021, Chung shared with Ashley Graham her experience of "crazy" postpartum depression, expressing feelings of resentment, anxiety, and anger. She revealed that during this transition period, she was open with her family and friends, which caused them to tread carefully and refrain from offering unsolicited advice. In the following month, she exclusively disclosed to Us her authentic experience with postpartum depression, acknowledging that becoming a parent can significantly impact one's life. Chung emphasized the importance of self-care and treating oneself with kindness, while also being considerate towards one's partner.

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While dealing with postpartum depression, Otis openly shared with We in December 2021 that she didn't feel it was "fair" to pursue having another baby. "If one's mind is not functioning properly, it is essential to prioritize taking care of it before adding more pressure. Therefore, I decided to pause my efforts in trying to conceive," she explained.

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Christine Quinn

The Selling Sunset star faced a challenging delivery in May 2021, with both her and baby Christian's lives at risk. Despite undergoing an emergency C-section, they both made it through. However, Quinn disclosed that she grappled with her mental well-being following childbirth.

"I experienced postpartum depression while being pregnant," Quinn, who is married to Christian Richard, disclosed to ET Canada in December 2021. "I did my utmost in handling the emotions I was facing then and still continue to confront."

Quinn's journey in Selling Sunset season 4 was not without its challenges. In addition to the on-screen drama, she had to confront the harsh realities of online bullying. People often made hurtful comments about her appearance, focusing on her being "thin" or having certain qualities. However, unbeknownst to them, Quinn was silently battling with the weight of PTSD.

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Lala Kent

The Vanderpump Rules star opened up about her experience with prenatal depression during her pregnancy with daughter Ocean. In a November 2021 episode of the "Give Them Lala" podcast, she admitted feeling "heavy" depression and even experiencing guilt because of it. Fortunately, she was able to overcome this challenging mental state. While Kent did have moments of feeling down during her postpartum journey, she found solace in the placenta pills, which she said provided significant relief.

“I am once again experiencing postpartum anxiety,” the singer shared with her Instagram followers in October 2021. “This daily mental rollercoaster I find myself on is characterized by a constant influx of irrational worries, fears, and feelings of depression that can easily overpower me if I don't utilize all of my coping mechanisms. Showing compassion towards myself is undoubtedly the most crucial tool. Additionally, I rely on breath work, meditation, exercise, acupuncture medication (which I will address in detail later!!), therapy, and the unwavering support and bravery to navigate these tumultuous waves."

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Ayesha Curry

"Without a doubt, I can affirm that I experienced postpartum depression," the host of the Food Network expressed during the October 2021 episode of the "Because Life" podcast while discussing the arrival of her daughter, Ryan, in the same month. "However, at that time, I was unaware of what it truly meant. It was not a topic that we openly discussed with our mothers. It was an intangible struggle. Did they never encounter it? I cannot say for certain. Yet, when I reflect upon it now, it was undeniably challenging."

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Kaitlynn Carter

The Hills: New Beginnings star opened up about her experience with prenatal depression in October 2021, just one month after the birth of her son Rowan. During an episode of the "Skinny Confidential Him & Her" podcast, Carter expressed how strange and disorienting the experience was for her, considering she had eagerly anticipated becoming a mother for a long time. She described how the hormonal changes had a profound impact on her mental state, plunging her into a deep sense of despair. It felt as if all the colors in her world had faded away, leaving her devoid of any emotions or personality. The uncertainty of how long this would last terrified her. However, at exactly 11 weeks, she noticed a significant shift. The darkness lifted, and she began to feel a renewed sense of normalcy and relief.

The Bachelor alum described parenting as "the most challenging task" she has ever undertaken in a September 2021 Instagram post. She expressed the difficulties of balancing work, caring for a three-month-old baby, managing postpartum anxiety and hormones, coping with sleep deprivation, and finding time for herself. The heightened struggle led her to experience a severe panic attack one night, causing her to rush to the fire station because she believed she was having an allergic reaction and experiencing throat constriction and numbness in her legs. She plans to consult a doctor the following day to address her anxiety, which has been overwhelming.

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Nilsa Prowant

"I would willingly endure the relentless grip of postpartum depression for the rest of my existence if it guarantees me the sheer joy of raising my beloved son," revealed the Floribama Shore star exclusively to Us in September 2021. She went on to mention the invaluable support she received from several mothers affiliated with Jersey Shore, who played an instrumental role in assisting her during this challenging period.

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Brandi Rhodes

"I attempted to resist it or convince myself, 'Hey, this isn't a genuine occurrence, stay calm,' and recently, I ultimately surrendered and acknowledged, 'You know what? Without a doubt, I am experiencing postpartum depression,' " the Rhodes to the Top star exclusively revealed to Us in September 2021, just two months after welcoming daughter Liberty into the world. "I need to be aware of it. I need to seek help when necessary. I simply need to take each day as it comes... It's beneficial to openly discuss things. There's no shame in life's changes, as they are a natural part of our journey."

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Alanis Morissette

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Sadie Robertson

During a podcast episode of "Whoa! That's Good" in July 2021, the former Duck Dynasty star opened up about her experience with postpartum anxiety. She expressed how she had been unaware of the thoughts that were causing her to feel jittery, anxious, and tight-chested throughout the day. Despite feeling happy and joyful, she also grappled with intense fear. This realization led her to understand that one doesn't have to choose only one emotional state.

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Katie Lowes

Describing her personal experience in May 2021, the Scandal alum revealed that although she had previously conversed about postpartum depression with her close ones, actually confronting it herself was an entirely different ordeal. Lowes expressed her gratitude towards her loved ones for their invaluable support throughout this challenging time.

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The actress expressed her concern for other mothers, stating that she didn't want them to experience the same sense of solitude. She emphasized that both prenatal and postpartum guilt can prevent these issues from being addressed, ultimately resulting in women feeling entirely isolated and alone in their emotions.

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Danielle Brooks

"I endured a significant weight gain throughout my pregnancy, and I believe I did experience postpartum depression," revealed the former Orange Is the New Black star in an interview with Parents magazine in April 2021. "Attempting to maintain a positive mindset when my entire world seemed to have turned upside down was a challenge. The process of bringing a new life into the world takes a toll on a woman's body. Often, we fail to show ourselves the love and patience we deserve in acknowledging this. While some may assume they will effortlessly regain their pre-pregnancy physique, that is far from the reality for many, including myself. While I strive to reclaim my pre-baby size, I am simultaneously committed to embracing and cherishing the skin I am currently in."

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Bekah Martinez

"I've personally witnessed that the journey of motherhood can undeniably have a profound impact on your overall well-being, particularly during the postpartum phase," shared the Bachelor alum with Parents Latina magazine in March 2021. "In my own experience, I found myself consumed by negative thoughts, fixating on the perils of the world and the fragility of my precious children. To make matters worse, the immense exhaustion from caring for two babies born within just 16 months took its toll. It was an agonizing ordeal that only improved once I embraced the concept of therapy."

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Nikki Bella

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Maren Morris

"I am currently emerging from the tunnel," revealed the country singer when discussing her battle with postpartum depression on CBS This Morning in September 2020. "I feel like I am back to my usual self. Thankfully, I was able to receive therapy over the phone during the [coronavirus] pandemic. ... Additionally, I have supportive individuals surrounding me who remind me that help is available if I ever find myself struggling."

In December 2022, while appearing on Sunday Today, the singer of the song "Middle" revealed that she went through numerous identity crises while battling postpartum depression during the COVID-19 quarantine. However, she acknowledged her husband Ryan Hurd for guiding her towards finding positivity through his music and conversations.

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Loren Brovarnik

"After the birth of my son, Shai, in May 2020, I went through a period of postpartum depression. Along with this, I faced difficulties in dealing with judgment and receiving unsolicited advice from others. This made me anxious and filled with worries about being a new mother."

Reese Witherspoon

“I have deep compassion for women who are going through that," the Golden Globe winner told Jamil. "Postpartum is very real.”

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Amber Portwood

"It was more than medications," the Teen Mom OG star told Us exclusively in March 2020 of her PPD recovery. "It was a mindset that I had to change."

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Shay Mitchell

Ever since I can remember, the concept of postpartum depression has been a common topic of discussion. However, I was caught off guard when I found myself experiencing depression right from the start. The overwhelming feeling of isolation and anxiety was incredibly debilitating. I began to question my sanity and wondered why no one had ever prepared me for this stage.

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Behati Prinsloo

The model revealed to PorterEdit in January 2019 that her first daughter Dusty's birth made it challenging to readjust to a normal life. However, after the arrival of her second daughter Gio, everything seemed much smoother for her – she found it easier to get back into her workout routine and breastfeeding also became less of a struggle.

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Cardi B

The rapper discussed her experience with postpartum depression (PPD) in an interview with Harper's Bazaar in February 2019. She revealed that PPD took her by surprise, stating, "It came out of nowhere." Initially, she believed she would be able to avoid it, as the doctor had mentioned it after giving birth, but at that time she felt mentally stable and thought PPD wouldn't affect her.

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Ivanka Trump

During an appearance on the Dr. Oz show in September 2017, the Apprentice alum revealed, "I experienced some form of postpartum depression after each of my three children. This period was incredibly tough emotionally. I constantly felt like I was falling short of my potential as a parent, entrepreneur, and executive. Surprisingly, the contrasting ease of my pregnancies made the impact even more profound."

Sarah Michelle Gellar

After the actress "made it through" PPD, "every day since has been the best gift," she captioned a May 2017 Instagram post.

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Chrissy Teigen

"In spite of having everything I needed for happiness, I experienced a sense of unhappiness for a significant part of the previous year," disclosed the Cravings author in a Glamour essay from March 2017, shortly after her daughter Luna's delivery. "What everyone, except me, knew until December was this: I am going through postpartum depression. It has been challenging for me to accept this reality and I even hesitated to discuss it."

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Hayden Panettiere

In January 2017, during an interview on Today, the Nashville star expressed that her journey with postpartum depression (PPD) had positively transformed her parenting abilities. She reflected on the initial struggles of feeling disconnected and not recognizing herself, yet emphasized the remarkable resilience of women. Ultimately, she attributed her growth and newfound strength as a mother to her experience with PPD.

Adele

After giving birth to her son, Angelo, the Grammy winner shared with Vanity Fair that she chose the support of fellow mothers instead of relying on antidepressants to combat her postpartum depression (PPD). In October 2016, she recounted, "One day, I confided in a friend, expressing my utter disdain for the situation, and her tears immediately mirrored my frustration as she echoed, 'I feel the exact same way.' At that moment, a weight was lifted off my shoulders."

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Brooke Shields

The author of "There Was a Little Girl" confessed in her book published in 2014 that she contemplated ending her life after the birth of Rowan. She often had thoughts of wanting to escape her reality, but she was simultaneously aware of the dangers involved in such actions.

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Gwyneth Paltrow

The Goop creator's then-husband, Chris Martin, helped her recognize that she was experiencing postpartum depression (PPD) after giving birth to their son Moses. "I felt completely numb," she revealed on an April 2012 episode of The Conversation With Amanda de Cadenet. "I felt disconnected from myself. I couldn't understand what was going on. I was at a loss. My husband was the one who actually said, 'Something's not right. I think you have postnatal depression.' I was ashamed and in denial, saying, 'No, I don't!' But then I started researching what it entailed and its symptoms, and I realized, 'Oh, yes, I do.'"

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Lisa Rinna

Reflecting on her past struggles, the reality TV personality from The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills revealed in Rinnivation magazine in 2009 that haunting images of knives and guns consumed her mind. She candidly disclosed how she had implored her husband Harry Hamlin to remove all sharp knives from their residence and even take away the firearm, for fear of succumbing to the harrowing desire of causing harm to those around her. A poignant revelation, this demonstrates the intense emotional turmoil she experienced. Despite the stigmatization and guilt she felt, she courageously chose to share her story, recognizing the shared burden faced by many women. Ultimately, she managed to find solace and overcome this dark chapter in her life by seeking assistance.

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Amanda Peet

During an interview with Gotham in August 2008, the New York resident unveiled that she had encountered a rather severe case of postpartum depression (PPD) subsequent to the delivery of her daughter. Expressing the difficulty of finding individuals who were open to discussing this matter, she mentioned, "It's challenging to locate others who are willing to engage in conversations about this."

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