Victoria’s Secret Model Explains How PPD Can Be ‘Spiraling’ for New Moms

Postpartum depression (PPD) shouldn’t be a taboo topic. Like many celebrity moms, Victoria’s Secret model Behati Prinsloo is doing her part to raise awareness on the common pregnancy complication.

In an interview with TODAY, Prinsloo touched on her experience with PPD. “Being a mom has changed me in many ways. I had moments of postpartum [depression] after our first baby, that I felt like it was coming through,” she says. “I think it’s very normal, though, as a young mom and a new mom to feel helpless and to feel overly emotional, you know.”

Although she says she didn’t have an “extreme case” of PPD, it was easy to see herself start to spiral. Luckily, the model was able to rely on the support and encouragement of her husband, singer and songwriter Adam Levine.

Support is so important for new moms, and getting help from experts is the best thing women can do for themselves, and ultimately baby too. “No matter how small your feelings and stress—or whatever it is about being a new mom—there’s always help out there and support from family and friends,” Prinsloo urges others.

One New York-based facility, The Motherhood Center, provides supportive services for new and expecting moms, including a range of treatment options for women experiencing perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs). It offers something for every woman making the transition to parenthood and looking for a support group, therapy or even a day program for moderate to severe PMADs. Recently, The Motherhood Center shared a video about the hidden struggles of motherhood, with real-life moms who’ve been through hell and back, and made it out stronger—thanks to the Center’s resources. The clip illustrates what it’s like for new mothers to experience a PMAD, and the impact of the Day Program as an effective treatment option. Hear empowering stories from its seven survivors below.

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.