Motherhood is beautiful, messy, and rewarding—but it can also be really hard. For so many women, the challenges go beyond sleepless nights and temper tantrums. They dive into darker, more difficult places that we don’t always talk about—like postpartum depression and feelings of shame or inadequacy.

That’s where Amy Koppelman comes in.

Amy is an author, filmmaker, and fierce advocate for women’s mental health. She’s written three novels—A Mouthful of Air, I Smile Back, and Hesitation Wounds—and even adapted I Smile Back into a movie starring Sarah Silverman. Her latest project is the film adaptation of A Mouthful of Air, which also marks her directorial debut.

But beyond her impressive resume, Amy is a woman with a mission: to spark honest conversations about mental health, especially for moms.

Why Amy Koppelman Wrote A Mouthful of Air

Amy started writing A Mouthful of Air nearly two decades ago, at a time when postpartum depression wasn’t openly discussed. She didn’t even know the term “postpartum depression” back then. All she knew was that mothers needed a voice, and she wanted to tell their stories.

The story centers around Julie, a young mom who seems to have everything—a loving husband, beautiful kids, and an eye for the beauty in everyday life. But behind the surface, Julie is struggling with thoughts that many women face but rarely share.

Amy has said that she wrote Julie as a way to process her own fears and insecurities as a mother. More than that, she wanted other women to know they’re not alone in their struggles.

Breaking the Stigma Around Maternal Mental Health

One of the hardest parts about struggling with depression or anxiety as a mom is the shame that often comes with it. Amy points out that women tend to carry an invisible weight—constantly judging themselves for not being perfect.

She says, “We decide what we’re allowed to have in life based on what we think we’ve done wrong.”

Sound familiar? Maybe you forgot your kid’s soccer practice, didn’t pack the perfect lunch, or just had one of those days. It’s easy to spiral into a place where you feel like a failure, even when you’re doing your best.

The truth is, nobody’s perfect. And asking for help when you’re struggling doesn’t make you weak—it makes you brave.

Why We Need to Keep Talking

When Amy first started writing A Mouthful of Air, finding information about postpartum depression was a struggle. She joked about having to use Ask Jeeves (yes, really) to do her research because the topic wasn’t widely discussed.

Thankfully, we’ve made progress since then. There are more resources, more conversations, and more awareness. But there’s still work to do.

Amy’s goal is to normalize the struggles of motherhood and mental health. She wants women to feel safe opening up about what they’re going through—and to know they’re not alone.

A Mouthful of Air—A Film That Sparks Conversations

Amy’s film adaptation of A Mouthful of Air is a raw, emotional portrayal of one mother’s journey with depression. It’s not your typical feel-good movie, but it’s the kind of story that stays with you long after the credits roll.

Through Julie’s story, Amy sheds light on the quiet battles many women face. She also reminds us of the importance of seeking help, breaking generational cycles, and being kind to ourselves.

The movie has been praised for its honesty and heart, and it’s currently playing in 800 theaters across the U.S. If you’re looking for a film that’ll make you think, feel, and maybe even cry, this is it.

Why This Matters

Maternal mental health affects more women than you might think, yet so many of us feel like we have to keep our struggles to ourselves. By telling stories like Julie’s, Amy is helping to break the stigma and open the door for more honest conversations.

If you’re a mom—or if you’ve ever loved someone who’s struggled with mental health—this is a movie you don’t want to miss.

Postpartum depression (PPD) has long been a silent struggle for countless mothers. In 1995, the term was scarcely discussed, leaving many women undiagnosed and without the support they desperately needed. Today, while awareness has increased, stigmas persist, preventing some from seeking help. Statistics show that one in five women experience severe postpartum depression, and 80% face “baby blues.” However, many still suffer silently, burdened by shame and guilt.

n a world inundated with picture-perfect portrayals of motherhood, it’s rare for media to truly reflect the complexities, challenges, and raw emotions that mothers experience. “A Mouthful of Air,” a poignant adaptation of Amy Koppelman’s novel, courageously dives into this delicate topic, addressing postpartum depression and the unspoken struggles of many women. Beyond the screen, it’s a story that inspires connection, vulnerability, and hope.

Why Critics and Viewers Don’t Always See Eye-to-Eye

One of the profound points raised in the conversation surrounding this film is the disparity between critics’ reviews and everyday audience reactions. Many viewers find personal meaning in films that critics may dismiss. This is particularly true for movies like “A Mouthful of Air,” which resonate deeply with audiences navigating their own emotional journeys.

Some movies, as the speaker notes, are less about critical acclaim and more about personal impact. They become traditions, sources of comfort, or even lifelines, regardless of what the reviews say. In many ways, this sentiment reflects how the film addresses motherhood: not as a one-size-fits-all experience but as a deeply personal journey.

The Courage to Tell Stories That Matter

Amy Koppelman, the creative force behind the film, speaks candidly about her own vulnerabilities and the bravery of Amanda Seyfried’s performance. Koppelman acknowledges that while it may feel trivial to label a performance as “brave,” Amanda’s raw and honest portrayal of a woman grappling with postpartum depression is nothing short of extraordinary.

This honesty carries over into Koppelman’s own reflections on creating the film. She admits to wrestling with self-doubt and the fear of judgment—a feeling that many mothers can relate to. But her ultimate message is clear: the importance of seeking help, speaking up, and allowing yourself the grace to navigate the difficult moments.

The Role of Community in Healing

One of the standout themes of the discussion is the power of connection. Koppelman encourages mothers to seek out support, whether from a close friend, a stranger, or an organization like Postpartum Support International. These connections can provide a lifeline in moments of darkness, offering the reassurance that no one has to face their struggles alone.

The rise of social media has also played a surprising role in fostering these conversations. While it’s easy to criticize platforms for promoting unrealistic standards, they also serve as spaces where women can share their experiences, find resources, and connect with others who understand. As Koppelman notes, even her daughter’s exposure to honest content about pregnancy challenges is a sign of progress.

Finding Joy Amid the Struggles

Despite the heavy themes of the film, the behind-the-scenes moments reveal a different side of the story. Laughter and camaraderie on set underscore an essential truth: even in the face of hardship, joy is possible. This duality is reflected in the movie itself—a reminder that hope and healing are within reach.

Koppelman’s final words offer encouragement to anyone struggling with postpartum depression or similar feelings. She urges mothers to hold on, seek help, and give themselves the chance to experience the joy of being present with their children. Her message is a beacon of hope: you are not alone, and brighter days are ahead.

How You Can Support the Conversation

To continue breaking the silence around motherhood and mental health, here are some actionable steps you can take:

1. Watch the Movie: Find a local theater screening A Mouthful of Air or look for it online.
2. Spread the Word: Share the movie with your friends, family, and online communities. This is a conversation that needs to reach as many people as possible.
3. Connect and Share: Join online communities like the Boss Moms group or seek out local support groups to share your experiences and find solidarity.
4. Use Resources: Organizations like Postpartum Support International offer invaluable help to mothers navigating mental health challenges.

A Final Note

Motherhood is a journey filled with highs and lows, but it’s a journey no one should have to face alone. Films like A Mouthful of Air open the door to conversations that can change lives. So, take that first step—whether it’s watching the film, reaching out to a friend, or simply allowing yourself to feel seen and understood.

Because at the end of the day, as Amy Koppelman reminds us, it’s the small, meaningful connections and acts of bravery that truly make a difference.

Guest Bio

Amy Koppelman is the author of three critically acclaimed novels: A Mouthful of Air, I Smile Back, and Hesitation Wounds, a 2016 Independent Publisher Book Award winner. She produced and co-adapted the film adaptation of I Smile Back, starring Sarah Silverman, who received a SAG award nomination for the role. The film premiered at the Sundance, Toronto, and Deauville film festivals. Her latest film, A Mouthful of Air, is her first undertaking as a screenwriter, director, producer, and illustrator. An outspoken advocate for women’s mental health, Amy lives in New York City with her family.

To connect with Amy, go to her: Personal Instagram | A Mouthful of Air Instagram  

And to get a copy of her book, go here.