Spain: new mother dies by suicide weeks after hospital discharge

The case shows that the risk of postpartum suicide can persist after a hospital discharge and a period of apparent calm. Perinatal depression and anxiety do not resolve on their own, nor do they disappear because the family seems fine for a few days.

A **42-year-old** woman died by suicide at her partner's parents' home. She had a **6-month-old** daughter and had been hospitalized for **more than a month** over suicidal thoughts.

## Discharge does not erase the risk
She suffered from postpartum anxiety and depression. She had been home since late August and everything seemed to be going well. On the **28th**, they celebrated **10 years** since they first met.

Her partner, **44**, says he never saw it coming. She went out through a fifth-floor window.

## Perinatal depression does not always warn you
The World Health Organization estimates that around **13%** of women who have just given birth suffer from a mental disorder, according to 2022 data.

In Spain, the **024** helpline has been handling suicidal behavior since **May 2022**.

## Asking for help is not overreacting
Any suicidal ideation in the postpartum period requires urgent professional assessment. Family cannot replace a doctor or a psychologist.

The case does not reveal what went wrong; a discharge and a few good weeks are no guarantee. This text is not a substitute for medical care.