As a very well-known sufferer of postpartum depression thanks to Tom Cruise, Brooke Shields took her cause to Capitol Hill to let people know the hardest part she's ever played is the role of new mom.
Brooke Shields joined lawmakers at a news conference this morning to introduce the mothers act in the senate. The legislation would initiate the use of new federal investments to promote postpartum depression education, detection and treatment programs for new moms.
Actress and Activist, Brooke Shields say, "And the knowledge of postpartum is a tool that I believe all women deserve. And this bill represents that tool. And it's an easy gift to give to women everywhere."Shields says she just thought she was a bad mother and would have been spared that misery had someone warned her about the illness.
At a news conference, Shields was asked what she would say to people who don't believe post-partum depression is a treatable disease.
"Grow some ovaries, and then we'll talk," she said.
I couldn't have said it any better Brooke
More photos of Brooke Shields on Capital Hill after the jump.
(Splash)
kelly says:
*applauds*
I just love her.
Jane says:
I have 7 children - I certainly have ovaries - and I think legislating treatment for postpartum depression is a huge mistake. I suffered PPD with 2 of my babies. Yes, it's very, very difficult. But drugging mothers is NOT the answer. SUPPORTING mothers is the answer. Helping mothers with brand new babies get enough sleep, adequate nutrition, emotional support, help with the housework, proper medical treatment for deficiencies and underlying illnesses - that is what is needed. It's much easier, of course, to give the mother a pill. But not very effective.
These drugs that are being given to mothers are dangerous. They statistically are NO BETTER than a placebo. And they have horrifying potential side effects.
I feel compassion for Brooke Shields - but I really wish she wouldn't try to legislate something so personal that should be between a woman, her doctor, and her family.