Abortion trauma is pervasive and yet not really acknowledged for the gravity it presents. Let me say that I am absolutely pro-choice but I realize that it’s a deeply profound decision to make, having an abortion. The results get stuck in a political clash that doesn’t allow for the far-reaching emotional and psychological consequences nor does it allow for their understanding or healing — it’s like an emotional gerrymandering that makes these women feel powerless, and encourages them to remain “safely” hidden.

Another ignored area is postpartum depression. It’s real and can be very dangerous. Women feel ashamed, with their brand new children, to say that they are plagued with consistent melancholy, that they aren’t filled with joy. They are offered the latest medication, and dismissed. This rarely takes care of the problem, which persists in a lesser or greater degree as time continues. With me, often the solution comes when their thoughts and feelings are unraveled, and the issue becomes clear.