News - Jen Affleck Sheds Light on Prenatal Depression Journey During Fourth Pregnancy

Jen Affleck, star of The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, has shared a heartfelt account of her battle with prenatal depression while expecting her fourth child with husband Zac Affleck. Via Instagram, Jen revealed that this pregnancy brought back prenatal depression "heavier" than before, detailing how her mind ventured to "dark places" during her first trimester, an experience exacerbated by relocating from Utah to California. She candidly described the isolation that often accompanies depression, especially when trying to be present for her children. Support from friends, family, and even strangers was a pivotal lifeline during this challenging period, Jen noted. "They reminded me that even when I couldn’t see the light, I wasn’t walking through the darkness alone," she wrote. While she does not consider depression beautiful, Jen believes in finding underlying beauty through adversity, emphasizing that her struggles compelled her to ask profound questions, slow down, and focus on what truly matters. She reflects on the importance of seeking help as a sign of strength and aims to love deeply and raise her children with resilience. Sharing her experience, she hopes to make others experiencing similar challenges feel less isolated, stating, "If sharing my story helps even one person feel less alone, then every vulnerable conversation has been worth it." This isn't Jen's first encounter with mental health challenges. In 2025, she spoke to People about her experiences with prenatal and postpartum depression, offering a message of hope and optimism to her past self. Her journey of perseverance and healing led her to compete on Dancing with the Stars, highlighting her ongoing journey of personal growth. As Jen and Zac anticipate the arrival of their fourth child, she continues to advocate for awareness and understanding of mental health challenges, leveraging her vulnerability to uplift others.