Behind the Smile: My Journey Out of Postpartum Depression

Behind the Smile: My Journey Out of Postpartum Depression As I read marie's book, when she was describing her abuse and excessive weight lost, I kept wondering to myself, where were her parents? She said she was placed in the care of trusted adults but the abuse happened anyway. I couldnt help but think, if she was abused, wouldnt her personality change? and why didnt her parents question the amount of weight she was losing. she looked absolutely anorexic by the last season of D&M in 1979. As marie described her feelings of depression and struggles to make it through just 1 more day, I could absolutely relate to that. I never suffered PPD, but suffered depression from severe empty nest syndrome. The depression I went through made it totally impossible for me to even get out of bed each day. I only have 1 son, who not only moved out but volunteered for a 15 month stint in Iraq. Marie must have an incredible amount of strenght. One thing I was totally bothered by was her constant complaints of not having enough time for her kids. She missed doing things with them and seeing them grow. My thoughts were, then slow down. you dont need a tv show, a doll company, public appearances, doll signings, whatever. Why keep adopting kids if you have no time for them. she went on to adopt an 8th child. I remember back in 1990, my parents and I went to see marie perform in a smoke filled bar in san diego. I felt sad that she was performing in this kind of atmosphere. she was scheduled to appear at 8pm. it was close to 10 before she finally appeared on stage. the announcer told the audience that Marie was late because she was putting her kids to bed. My mother yells out, if she can't perform and be a mother at the same time, she needs to pick one and move on. as much as I love Marie and her family, I think Marie is selfish. Selfish to take on so many kids and then not be able to take care of them herself. That would cause depression for anyone. I have a hard time believing it was PPD she suffered from but instead, she was depressed over her work load, kid load and lack of sleep. She didnt learn anything did she when she adopted yet another kid she has no time for

I've always loved Marie Osmond since I grew up watching "Donny & Marie" and reading her column in "Tiger Beat" magazine. I revisited this book when I suggested it to a dear friend who had also struggled with postpartum depression issues and after years of sitting on the shelf, actually found it quite healing for myself, as well.This book is truly wonderful. I re-read it recently and it is not just a book for dealing with postpartum depression, but ANY depression stowed away and suppressed from events from one's childhood. Marie went through many traumatic experiences - from sexual abuse, perfection issues, body and eating disorders - and she discusses them candidly and honestly while still keeping a sense of humor which most assuredly helped her not completely lose her mind.Marie learned how to take care and nurture that "little girl" inside through all of her trials and heartache. All of these wounds needed the time and HONOR of digging in deep and not being too proud or distracted to do the hardest work of all: facing your past and allowing and honoring yourself enough to face it and take the steps to HEAL.Great book - even if you don't have kids or your own t.v. show.

I dare you not to be moved by this book! Marie Osmond will pluck your heartstrings with this boldly honest overview of her life and the factors contributing to her postpartum depression experience. This amazingly talented woman reveals a down-to-earth nature and an ability to laugh at herself. If that's not enough to make you feel like a good friend, then perhaps her aching vulnerability will draw you in. Each page uncovers another facet of her life and personality...taking you through her first performance at age three, The Donny and Marie shows, to what it's like to juggle a family of seven (!) children, a marriage, and busy career. Even those unfamiliar with PPD should find it an easy read, especially if you're an Osmond fan. The teen idol I admired from afar shows she's a truly worthy role model, loaded with talent and grace.Maureen O'BrienAuthor, Purgatory Behind the Wire PURGATORY BEHIND THE WIRE

Marie gave a very honest and candid revelation about her nightmare with PPD. She showed step by step how her life changed before her eyes and the nightmare of bringing it back into control. All of the tabloids commented only on the outward appearances they saw, but never had any facts straight....which is typical with celebrities. There is always a story behind every smile, and in Marie's case she didn't just try to explain her PPD to clear up the falasies printed against her, but to help as many women as possible to understand there is help available for them. I give Marie high points for her remarkable ability to open up her life once again to encourage others.

This book had me in tears! All the pain this poor girl went through! I had this but then they thought you were selfish. My heart goes out to her for her struggles!! God Bless her for telling her story. I'm sure that wasn't easy!! Can't wait to get started on her latest book "The Key Is Love"! I've always loved the Osmond Family so reading her books are pure joy! You would think people would realize & care that celebrities deserve some privacy too!! God love you Marie!! Watch your show religiously and love it!! Super Fan!!

Request for bday present; she loved it!

Anyone who grew up with the Osmonds will love and appreciate knowing the heart behind the smile. I haven't had PPD but I connect with her on many levels and really appreciate her wish to help others.

Absolutely brilliant book. I was and still am a big fan of the Osmonds. Reading Marie's book made you feel as though you were experiencing her journey with her One minute I laughed then the next I cried. Super writing about such a pertinent subject and silent illness and you made it sound as though if you are a sufferer that you are not alone and there is help out there. Your an inspirational and tenacious woman Marie with a great sense of humour. Keep up the good work. By publicising such difficulties it can only ease the pain and suffering for someone else maybe in the future and let them know that you can talk about the difficulties and not be treated as though you are from a different planet.

I really enjoyed this book. It was lighthearted and easy to pick up in odd moments.

Marie is an inspiration to all women. Behind the smile she is a normal person who has faced her trials and tribulations which have made the the strong woman that she is. God bless her.

Very pleased!

perfect