Lisa Rinna, known for her role on ‘The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills,’ opened up about her experience with severe postpartum depression following the births of her daughters. In the recent episode of their podcast, ‘Let’s Not Talk About the Husband,’ Rinna and her husband, actor Harry Hamlin, shared the challenges she faced during this difficult time.
After giving birth to her daughters, Dinna, now 26, and Amelia, now 23, Rinna described experiencing intense and distressing thoughts. She recalled a specific incident after Amelia’s birth, where she threatened her husband while they were at a cabin in Canada. Hamlin recounted how Rinna expressed feelings of violence, saying, ‘You better watch out. I feel like killing you.’ He humorously added, ‘Keep the knives in the drawer.’ Rinna confirmed that during this period, she suffered from severe hallucinations and contemplated self-harm.
Despite these extreme experiences, Rinna emphasized that her thoughts never turned to harming her daughters. Seeking help was crucial for her recovery. After consulting with healthcare professionals, she was prescribed antidepressants, which she reported helped her regain control of her mental health almost immediately.
Postpartum depression affects approximately 1 in 7 new mothers. Unlike the temporary ‘baby blues,’ which typically resolve within two weeks, postpartum depression can persist for months if untreated. Symptoms include profound sadness, hopelessness, irritability, and fatigue. Many women may struggle to care for themselves and their newborns, facing issues like frequent crying, anxiety, guilt, and difficulty forming bonds with their babies.
Effective treatment options usually involve a combination of psychotherapy, medication, and support from family or groups. Antidepressants are a common choice, with many being safe for breastfeeding mothers. Rinna’s story highlights the importance of recognizing the signs of postpartum depression and seeking timely help, as it can lead to substantial improvements in mental health and family dynamics.
