Lisa Rinna, the 61-year-old star of "The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills," has opened up about her harrowing experience with postpartum depression following the births of her two daughters, Delilah Belle and Amelia Gray. In a recent episode of her podcast, "Let’s Not Talk About the Husband," Rinna candidly discussed the intense struggles she faced, shedding light on a topic that remains stigmatized despite its prevalence.
During the podcast, Rinna revealed, "I had horrible postpartum depression, but I didn’t know it. I didn’t know what it was, because you know when you have your first baby, you don’t know." Her husband, actor Harry Hamlin, recounted a chilling moment where she threatened him after a movie outing, saying, "You better watch out. I feel like killing you. You said, ‘Keep the knives in a drawer.’" This admission highlights the severity of her mental state at the time.
Rinna elaborated on her experience, explaining that she suffered from terrifying hallucinations and intrusive thoughts. "I was having these horrible visions, it’s true. I was having horrible hallucinations of killing people. And I needed to take the knives out of the house. And I also had horrible visions of driving the car into a brick wall," she said. Importantly, she clarified that her visions never involved harming her baby, stating, "I did not have horrible visions about hurting the baby in any way, shape, or form."
Harry Hamlin, 73, played a crucial role in her journey to recovery. He urged her to contact her obstetrician-gynaecologist, who prescribed antidepressants that took about three weeks to take effect. Rinna described that period as one of absolute hopelessness, saying, "I was just absolutely hopeless. I don’t know how to describe it, because mine didn’t manifest itself towards the baby at all. It was towards me. I would say looking back, I was completely psychotic."
Postpartum depression is a serious mental health issue that affects many women worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, more than one in ten women experience postpartum depression, with some studies suggesting that the number could be even higher in developing countries. Hormonal changes after childbirth, particularly the dramatic drop in estrogen and progesterone, can significantly affect brain chemistry. Coupled with the physical demands of recovery and the emotional intensity of motherhood, it’s no wonder some women find themselves in a dark mental space.
Rinna’s honesty is not an isolated instance. Other celebrities, such as Chrissy Teigen, Adele, Serena Williams, and Brooke Shields, have also bravely shared their postpartum journeys. Adele, for instance, once revealed that she suffered from frightening depression after her son was born and didn’t speak to anyone about it. Teigen wrote an essay detailing her struggles, emphasizing that despite a seemingly perfect life, she often found herself crying alone.
In South Africa, actress Jo da Silva has also opened up about her battles with postpartum depression, calling for more honest conversations and better support for mothers facing similar challenges. Organizations like the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) provide vital resources for those dealing with postpartum depression, emphasizing that reaching out for help is the first step toward recovery.
Rinna’s revelations come at a crucial time when the conversation around mental health, especially postpartum issues, is gaining momentum. The pressure and expectations placed on mothers today are immense, and it’s essential to foster an environment where women feel comfortable seeking help. The more we talk about postpartum depression, the more we allow women the space to ask for help, feel heard, and begin their healing journeys.
Lisa Rinna and Harry Hamlin share two daughters: Delilah Belle, 26, and Amelia Gray, 23. Delilah, who graduated from high school in 2017, moved to New York City in 2018 to study criminal psychology at NYU. She has made multiple appearances on shows like "Harry Loves Lisa" and has walked the runway at New York Fashion Week. Amelia, who graduated in 2019, is also pursuing her education in nutrition, wellness, and psychology while modeling full-time.
As Rinna continues to share her story, she helps to destigmatize postpartum depression and encourages other women to seek the support they need. Her experience serves as a reminder that mental health issues can affect anyone, regardless of their public persona or perceived success. The journey toward healing is often complicated, but it is vital to acknowledge and address these challenges openly.
In conclusion, Lisa Rinna’s candid discussion about her postpartum depression experience is an important contribution to the ongoing conversation about maternal mental health. By sharing her story, she not only validates the experiences of many women but also helps to foster a more supportive and understanding environment for those struggling with similar issues.
