Lindsay Clancy Trial Inspires ‘Charmed’ Star to Open Up About Postpartum Anxiety That Put Her in Psych Ward

Alyssa Milano, star of the hit TV show "Charmed," has opened up about her own battle with postpartum anxiety following the ongoing Lindsay Clancy trial. In a recent essay shared on her Substack, Milano recounted her struggles after the birth of her son Milo in 2011. Despite meticulous birth plans, she had a C-section 10 days early due to complications, and began experiencing anxiety soon after their hospital stay.

Milano described the intense feelings of anxiety she experienced, feeling like she had failed as a mother and was dying. She struggled with guilt for being unable to breastfeed her son, who had not yet produced milk. Milano also faced challenges as a working mother, feeling guilty about leaving her child during the day, and fearing for his safety in the care of others.

She reached breaking point, visiting the emergency room at 2 AM, where she demanded psychiatric help and was admitted to a public psychiatric ward for three days.

Milano's essay highlights the importance of recognizing and addressing maternal mental health issues, noting that postpartum anxiety and psychosis are different conditions. While her experiences may differ from Clancy's, Milano emphasized that the trial has brought renewed attention to the urgent need for proper treatment of maternal mental health.

She urged lawmakers to pass policies that improve access to mental health services, and encouraged society to support those facing mental health challenges. Milano closed her essay with a poignant appeal, asking those who see her on the street to remind her that she is not alone in her struggles.