Problem
Overview
Back in 2005, there was a debate between scientologist and actor Tom Cruise and actress Brooke Shields. Brooke Shields was very open about her use of Paxil and therapy to combat the postpartum depression she experienced after delivering her first child in 2003. During a controversial interview on the Today show, host Matt Lauer asked Tom Cruise about his views on the topic.
The postpartum period refers to the weeks following delivery. According to the American Psychiatric Association, about 70% of new mothers have periods of tearfulness, sadness, and irritability, which the Association refers to as the "baby blues."
Instructions
Watch this YouTube video: "Tom Cruise Chews Out Matt Lauer on Live TV" (5:47)
Read these articles
1. "Complementary and Alternative Medicine Therapies for Perinatal Depression" by Kristina M. Deligiannidis and Marlene P. Freeman.
2. "War of Words" By Brooke Shields
Prompts
Given what you have read in this week's reading, the resources below and your online research:
a) What are your views on the various treatments for postpartum depression?
b) Do you prefer a holistic approach versus a medical approach? Or both?