'RHOP': Is Michael Darby causing Ashley's post-partum depression? Fans say he's 'stressing her f**k out'

On the latest episode of 'Real Housewives of Potomac', we once again saw Ashley struggling to come to terms with her new role as a mother
Michael Darby and Ashley Boalch (Paul Morigi/Getty Images)
Michael Darby and Ashley Boalch (Paul Morigi/Getty Images)

Michael and Ashley Darby's marriage has taken a turn for worse ever since they had their baby, Dean. In an earlier episode, we saw Michael blaming their son for his infidelity Michael explained during the therapy session how he felt inadequate and neglected ever since the baby entered their lives. Unlike, Ashley who empathized with Michael and felt guilty for ignoring him and his needs, fans slammed him for not taking responsibility for his behavior.

On the latest episode of 'Real Housewives of Potomac', we once again saw Ashley struggling to come to terms with her new role as a mother. So, she made an appointment with her therapist to discuss her problems, and find out if she was suffering from post-partum depression. So, the therapist administers a questionnaire on the housewife to assess her situation. In a series of questions, that tried to understand Ashley's emotions and feelings post-pregnancy, it was revealed that she was struggling with her life.

Ashley observed how things haven't been good for her. She gives an analogy of being in a box, and not knowing how to reach out to anyone from the box, or allowing anyone into the box to help her, after her pregnancy. While Ashley was feeling bad for herself, and continuing to feel guilty over how the changes in her are affecting Michael, fans began slamming him.

Several fans felt that Ashley might be suffering from post-partum depression, but Michael and his roving eyes might be one of the contributing factors to her misery. A fan tweeted, "Having the baby isn’t Ashley’s issue, Michael is stressing her the f**k out and making her unhappy. He seemingly doesn’t help her, and he’s always cheating. #RHOP." Another fan wrote, "#rhop I hate the way they’re framing this as Ashley only having ppd. Yes she could very well have that but it doesn’t help she’s in a financially abusive marriage with a cheater. Let’s look at all causation."



 



 

A fan wondered, "Could Ashley maybe be crying a lot 'cause her scumbag husband is cheating on her and whining about being jealous of his baby? #RHOP." "Why is Ashley trying to place blame on herself for Gollum being a creep? Why is she playing in our face? Mess #RHOP," questioned a fan. "Ashley is putting too much pressure on herself to be a perfect parent. I remember when Michael told her he was afraid to have a baby with her because he thought she'd be like her mother. What has Michael ever done to prove his love? I truly want better for Ashley. #RHOP #Bravo," observed a fan.



 



 



 

'Real Housewives of Potomac' Season 5 airs every Sunday at 9/8c only on Bravo.

GET THE BIGGEST ENTERTAINMENT STORIES
STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX.

MORE STORIES

The Season 3 finale saw Russell learn more about his father's past activities with Chrono Stasis
50 minutes ago
Netflix’s latest hit ‘The Boroughs’ puts New Mexico at its forefront, using several staple locations from the city in production.
1 hour ago
‘Marshals’ paid tribute to Leonard 'Lenny' E. Hancock Jr., who died in December 2025
3 hours ago
Edelstein has recently played the antagonists in Netflix’s ‘The Boroughs’ as well as the police-procedural drama series ‘Law & Order: SVU.’
3 hours ago
In a surprising move, Tom takes Tate on a fishing trip to Texas in the 'Marshals' Season 1 finale
3 hours ago
Upcoming ‘From’ Episode 6 will feature the aftermath of Jade’s visions, followed by even more unexpected and mysterious twists.
4 hours ago
Stephen Colbert hosted his last episode of 'The Late Show' on May 21 and surprised viewers with an appearance on 'Only In Monroe'
5 hours ago
News of Chad Feehan's exit has seen fans speculate whether there will be a second season of 'Dutton Ranch'
1 day ago
Showrunner Louisa Levy teased what to expect from an already greenlit Season 2, and how Hannah's best friend takes centerstage
1 day ago
'Fire Country' ties off all loose ends in the Season 4 finale titled 'Try Not To Drown.'
1 day ago