From Postpartum Psychosis to Advocacy: Willemijn’s Story of Survival and Strength

Chelsea Myers
Jan 20
3 min read

The Unseen Battle of Postpartum Psychosis

When we talk about postpartum mental health, depression and anxiety are the most common conditions discussed. But for some parents, the journey takes an unexpected and terrifying turn. Postpartum psychosis, affecting 1–2 in every 1,000 births, is a severe condition that can strike without warning, even in those with no prior history of mental illness (NHS, Postpartum Support International).

Willemijn De Bruin, a researcher in international public health, mother of two, and passionate advocate, shares her powerful story of survival and strength.

A Normal Pregnancy, An Unexpected Crisis

For Willemijn, pregnancy during the pandemic was relatively smooth. She and her partner were excited to welcome their first child, born in January 2021 in the UK. But within days after birth, she began experiencing confusing symptoms, severe insomnia, heightened energy, and racing thoughts.

At first, it seemed like typical new-parent exhaustion. But soon, Willemijn became delusional, convinced she didn’t need sleep and fearing she might lose her ability to speak. It wasn’t until a panic attack occurred in front of a midwife that she was admitted to a mother-baby unit (MBU), a specialized psychiatric facility where parents can stay with their infants while receiving treatment.

“Not everyone is this lucky,” Willemijn reflects. Many countries, including the United States and Canada, don’t have MBUs, forcing parents into general psychiatric wards and separating them from their babies.

Woman in an orange shirt cradles a sleeping baby in a hospital bed, looking thoughtful. Soft lighting creates a calm atmosphere. — A new mother receiving care in an MBU psychiatric facility, where mom and baby can stay together.

The Road Through Hospitalization and Relapse

Willemijn’s first hospitalization lasted three weeks. She stabilized on medication, but recovery truly began at home, a process she says took nearly a year. Two months postpartum, a medication change triggered a relapse, leading to a second, more severe psychotic episode.

This time, her delusions were darker. She worried her baby was a "devil child," a common fear that can occur with postpartum psychosis, which often includes religious or existential thoughts. Despite these terrifying ideas, Willemijn never rejected her baby, a fact that staff recognized as a powerful protective factor.

“It was hell,” she shares, “but I never stopped caring for him.”

Choosing to Try Again

Despite the trauma, Willemijn and her partner decided to have another child. This time, they carefully crafted a preventative mental health plan, consulting psychiatrists in multiple countries, hiring a doula for postpartum night care, and surrounding themselves with supportive family and healthcare providers.

Her second pregnancy and birth were healing; an empowering experience that restored a sense of agency and joy. Willemijn stayed well postpartum, proving that recovery and even positive future pregnancies are possible after psychosis.

Child in yellow sweater touches pregnant belly, with warmth and curiosity. Cozy setting with red patterned cushion in the background. — A touching moment between a child and their mother as they prepare to welcome a new family member.

Turning Pain into Advocacy

Today, Willemijn is committed to raising awareness about postpartum psychosis and maternal mental health. With her background in international public health and her lived experience, she combines data with personal storytelling to break stigma and call for systemic change.

She stresses two urgent needs:

Better education for healthcare providers: Many professionals don’t recognize the signs of postpartum psychosis, leading to dangerous delays in care.
Greater access to specialized care: MBUs should be available in every country, with adequate capacity and accessibility.

As Willemijn notes, “Anyone can experience postpartum psychosis. It’s not rare. And people die when it’s missed.”

Owning the Story

Willemijn speaks openly about her journey, insisting that silence only feeds stigma. By sharing her experiences, she not only reclaims her own narrative but also gives others permission to seek help and feel less alone.