Helping a Momma Through PMADs (perinatal or postpartum mood and anxiety disorders)

PMADs color a mother’s whole world, and often nothing seems good. Saying “you’re doing a good job,” feels empty. Worse, it may even make her feel hypocritical because of how she feels inside. Instead of offering her general statements about God or her motherhood, give her something specific: Comment on how patiently she handled her toddler’s meltdown or how affectionate she is with her baby. Note other ways you see God at work in her life. Let her see that your life isn’t all put together by sharing your own story of God’s faithfulness in hard places. READ THE ENTIRE ESSAY HERE Momma Theologians Practical Takeaways Think back: In your own suffering, what have others said or done that was helpful to you? Why? What was unhelpful or hurtful? Why? Plan ahead: When you visit a new mom, add extra time to your schedule to do her dishes or listen to whatever she has on her mind. Whether visiting in her home or passing in the church hallway, think of questions you can ask her to probe how she’s doing (keep these appropriate to the closeness of your relationship). Prepare encouragement: Who might you text or call today to encourage them in whatever circumstances they’re going through (postpartum or otherwise)? What Scripture passage or theological truth seems fitting for their situation? Go in depth: I have written more about the church supporting mothers at Gospel Centered Discipleship (here) and general support on my blog (here). Dave Furman’s book, Being There: How to Love Those Who Are Hurting is an excellent resource to guide and encourage you as you walk alongside moms with PMADs. ____________ We are so thankful you found us here! Momma Theologians is a new motherhood ministry podcast and our mission is to revive spiritual growth in the midst of motherhood. We offer resources, articles, essays, a monthly devotional newsletter and more at www.mommatheologians.com Be sure to follow us on social media @mommatheologians ____________ Momma Theologians Contributor Kyleigh Dunn Kyleigh Dunn is wife to Ezra and mother to three young girls. She reads obsessively, enjoys playing oboe and piano, and seeks to spread awareness of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders in the church and apply theology and biblical encouragement to moms experiencing them. Kyleigh blogs at www.thesojourningdunns.wordpress.com and can be found on Instagram @kyleighrdunn or Facebook @thesojourningdunns. *TAGS* Christian Motherhood, Momma Theologian, Bible, Jesus, Women in the Word, Women of the Word, Bible Study, Woman Bible Study, Mothering in faith, Motherhood, Christian Motherhood, Armor of God, Christian Mom Ministry, Children's Bible Study, Raising Christian Children, Christian Depression, Christian Therapy, Christian Postpartum, Christian Perinatal Depression Advice, Help for Postpartum Depression for Christians