“When The Bough Breaks sheds a bright light on the serious issues associated with postpartum depression and postpartum psychosis. I am honored to be a part of this team, that worked so fearlessly to bring awareness to cause, and seek actions for mothers around the world”

-Brooke Shields

DECEMBER 15, 2024 | Released By Point of View Pictures

About the Film

When The Bough Breaks is a feature length documentary about postpartum depression and postpartum psychosis. Narrated and Executive Produced by Brooke Shields, this shocking film uncovers this very public health issue which affects one in five new mothers after childbirth.

The film follows Lindsay Gerszt, a mother who has been suffering from PPD for six years. Lindsay agrees to let the cameras document her and give us an in depth look at her path to recovery. We meet women who have committed infanticide and families who have lost loved ones to suicide. 

Babies are dying, women aren't speaking out and the signs are being missed. When The Bough Breaks takes us on a journey to find answers and break the silence.  This film also features stories from singer Carnie Wilson, actress Tanya Newbould, celebrity chef Aarti Sequeira and Peggy Tanous of The Real Housewives of Orange County.

Official Trailer

Testimonials

  • I will never not share this documentary as I suffered from severe postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, and postpartum PTSD. I wouldn’t be here anymore if I hadn’t seen this exact documentary at the exact right time and realized what was wrong with me. We as a society need to raise awareness on postpartum disorders as so many women and even men suffer from this and it’s still a taboo. We’re supposed to be in this blissful state after having a child and everything should come to us so naturally and it is made out to be this amazing wonderful bliss-like thing that we should all strive for.. until it’s not, until it’s the hardest and most devastating and horrific thing to you and you feel like a broken failure and like your death will be the best for the world. It is a serious disorder that takes the lives of women, children, and fathers. Postpartum mental suffering is NOT something people choose, it happens to them, and they can’t stop it without help. If we raise awareness we can prepare mothers and partners and friends and family for the signs so they can step in when needed and get help to those who need it. Help IS there!! You’re NOT alone if you suffer from this. It’s ok to not be ok, but it’s not ok to give up, reach out, talk to people, scream for help if need be. This should be mandatory material to watch for expecting parents so they know what to look for, no matter how scary it might be to see this documentary. It’s WAY more scary to go through it when you don’t know what’s going on.

    -Ellen

  • This documentary saved both my son and my life. Truly- it was in my darkest moment that having seen this movie allowed me to ask for help. I cannot thank you all enough.

    -Janine

  • My deepest gratitude for this powerful film you & your courageous team have created. I found relief in discovering I've gone through such a difficult time mentally on my own & praise to God for protecting my daughter & myself in facing living through this postpartum depression. May the ladies & babies we have lost be blessed with forgiveness & rest in divine peace. Sending you & everyone in this project much love. It’s an honor to have witness your beautiful soul, strength, and purposeful movement. God bless you. Well done

    - Anonymous