S4E161: Water Cooler Chat: When Intrusive Thoughts Enter The Courtroom
The Lindsay Clancy trial has ignited intense conversation—and plenty of confusion—around maternal mental health and the meaning of “intrusive thoughts.” In this Water Cooler Chat, Nicole Morris, LMFT examines why clinical language matters, particularly when distinguishing postpartum OCD, postpartum depression, bipolar disorder, and postpartum psychosis. We’ll also unpack an especially important reminder for anyone frightened by their own mind: an intrusive thought is not the same as desire, intent, action, or psychosis.
Disclaimer: This episode is educational and is not intended to diagnose Lindsay Clancy or offer an opinion regarding criminal responsibility.
Resources:
For more information on Post-Partum or Perinatal Mental Health, check out my prior episode with Gina Abbondonte, LCSW: https://www.ocdfamilypodcast.com/blog/s2e82-the-bully-that-is-perinatal-ocd
Important Disclaimer & Crisis Resources
The OCD Family Podcast and accompanying blog content are provided for educational and informational purposes only and are not a substitute for individualized mental health assessment, diagnosis, treatment, medical advice, or crisis intervention. Nicole Morris, LMFT, has not evaluated or treated Lindsay Clancy, and discussion of this case should not be interpreted as an opinion regarding her diagnosis, treatment, mental state, legal responsibility, or the actions of her family or healthcare providers.
These episodes may discuss sensitive topics including intrusive thoughts, harm, suicide, self-harm, psychiatric hospitalization, psychosis, and the deaths of children. Please engage with this content with care.
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, may act on thoughts of suicide or harm, or cannot stay safe, please seek immediate professional help rather than relying on this podcast, blog, social media, or other educational content.
In the United States: Call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. If there is an immediate or life-threatening emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Outside the United States: Contact your local emergency services or nearest emergency department. You can also visit FindAHelpline.com to locate verified crisis and emotional-support helplines available in countries around the world.
If you are concerned about your mental health or that of someone you love but are not experiencing an immediate crisis, please contact a qualified mental health or medical professional in your area for individualized assessment and guidance.
