Grief, Yet Held: Hope in the Middle of Loss

The Myth of the Glowing Mother: A Deep Dive into a New Mom's Emotions

Postpartum & Perinatal Mental Health: Insights with Stephanie Risinger In this episode, Stephanie Risinger, a seasoned perinatal therapist, shares her expertise on mental health issues surrounding pregnancy and postpartum. Whether you're a new mom, pregnant, or supporting someone through this journey, her insights offer hope, understanding, and practical advice.Key Topics: * The difference between perinatal and postpartum mental health * Recognizing early signs of postpartum depression, anxiety, and intrusive thoughts * The significance of normalizing emotional struggles during pregnancy * The role of sleep, relational dynamics, and spiritual beliefs in mental health * Effective holistic and cognitive-behavioral approaches to treating postpartum disorders * The importance of prenatal planning and early counseling * Medications: when they are necessary and safe options during breastfeeding * How previous postpartum experiences influence subsequent pregnancies * Practical tips for self-care, self-awareness, and asking for help * Building a community of support to combat shame and isolation Motherhood is beautiful—but it can be overwhelming. Get biblical wisdom and practical tools to support your mental and emotional wellbeing as you care for your baby and yourself. Become the steady, grounded mom you were created to be. ⁠A Mom Is Born: Biblical Wisdom and Practical Advice for Taking Care of Yourself and Your New Baby – The Perfect Christian Mother’s Day Gift for New and Expectant Moms⁠ [⁠https://www.amazon.com/Mom-Born-Biblical-Practical-Yourself/dp/1400233992⁠] Stephanie's Links Motherhood in America Podcast [https://spotify.com/others] (Spotify, YouTube) Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/stephanie.rising] Stephanie's Website [https://hopefulandwhole.com/] Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction to Stephanie Risinger and episode focus 02:00 - What is perinatal mental health? Definitions and scope 04:30 - Recognizing early signs of postpartum depression and anxiety 06:45 - Common concerns during pregnancy that signal need for support 08:15 - Shame around depression during pregnancy and its impact 10:00 - Understanding hormonal influences on postpartum mental health 12:00 - How to approach treatment: holistic and CBT strategies 14:30 - Addressing faulty beliefs and finding your worth in faith 16:45 - The importance of sleep and physical health first 18:15 - Developing a postpartum plan during pregnancy 20:00 - The role of medication and safety considerations 22:00 - The impact of subsequent pregnancies on mental health 24:30 - Preventative care and mental health preparedness 26:00 - How to support friends and loved ones experiencing postpartum struggles 28:00 - When and how to seek counseling during pregnancy 30:00 - Stephanie’s resources: her consulting practice, podcast, and speaking engagements 33:00 - Recognizing postpartum anxiety symptoms, intrusive thoughts, and compulsions 36:00 - Managing stress, sleep deprivation, and intrusive thoughts 39:00 - The use of medication in severe cases and hope for recovery 41:00 - Connecting faith, science, and mental health treatment 44:00 - Practical advice for moms and support networks 45:30 - Stephanie’s message of hope and community supportResources & Links:Connect with Stephanie Risinger:This episode is packed with actionable insights for any woman navigating pregnancy or postpartum, emphasizing that you are never alone and that help is available.

"Why Your Brain Won't Just Drop It (and What Actually Helps)"

Rachael Elmore shares her personal experience with an emotional crash and offers practical strategies for deescalating anxiety and worry. This episode explores how understanding the brain's response to stress can help moms manage overwhelming feelings and regain their power. keywords emotional health, anxiety management, motherhood, self-care, mental wellness, stress relief, brain science, emotional resilience key topics The brain's response to stress and worry Practical grounding and breathing exercises The myth of parental control over children's futures takeaways Peace is often found in releasing the need to figure everything out. Your brain reacts to perceived threats as if in physical danger. You don't have as much power over your children's future as you think. Titles How to Overcome Emotional Crashes in 15 Minutes The Science of Stress and How Moms Can Regain Control sound bites "Peace is found in releasing the need to figure it out." "Your brain reacts to perceived threats as if in danger." "We don't have enough power to control the future." Chapters 00:00 Navigating Emotional Turmoil 02:52 Understanding Obsession vs. Concern 05:54 Reframing Financial Fears 09:06 The Power of Self-Regulation 11:51 Embracing Imperfection in Parenting 15:00 Finding Freedom in Letting Go Are you needing more mental health guidance? Discover biblical wisdom and practical advice for new moms that will help you thrive as you take care of yourself and your new baby. Learn how to be the emotionally healthy mom God designed you to be. A Mom Is Born: Biblical Wisdom and Practical Advice for Taking Care of Yourself and Your New Baby – The Perfect Christian Mother’s Day Gift for New and Expectant Moms [⁠https://www.amazon.com/Mom-Born-Biblical-Practical-Yourself/dp/1400233992⁠]

Holding a Baby and Anxiety: Real Talk about Postpartum Anxiety

In this episode, therapist Rachael Elmore engages in a heartfelt conversation with author and mental health advocate Courtney Devich. Together, they explore the challenges of anxiety, particularly in the context of motherhood, and share valuable insights that resonate with many women facing similar struggles. Understanding the Journey: Courtney's journey with anxiety began in childhood, where she recalls worrying about things that most children wouldn't even consider. Diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) at the age of 19, she reflects on her early experiences, including obsessive thoughts about her future career. Courtney candidly shares that her anxiety intensified during her transition to motherhood, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, which added layers of stress and uncertainty to her life. The Impact of Motherhood: As Courtney describes, her anxieties were exacerbated by the pressures of being a new mother to premature and high-risk babies. The pandemic brought her to a breaking point, stripping away the joy of motherhood and leaving her feeling overwhelmed. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing that anxiety can manifest in various forms and that it often has deep-rooted causes beyond the immediate circumstances. Finding Solutions: Courtney's path to managing her anxiety involved a combination of therapy, medication, and faith. She highlights that medication was a crucial part of her recovery, and while it helped alleviate some symptoms, it wasn't a cure-all. The conversation delves into the importance of doing the hard work—returning to therapy, taking small steps, and being gentle with oneself during challenging times. Key Takeaways: 1. Anxiety often has deep roots that can begin in childhood and can be exacerbated by life changes, such as becoming a parent. 2. Motherhood can amplify existing anxieties, especially during stressful times like a global pandemic. 3. Finding effective treatment for anxiety may require a combination of therapy and medication, and it's important to approach this journey with patience and self-compassion. 4. Sharing personal stories can foster connection and understanding among women dealing with similar struggles. Conclusion: Courtney Devich's story serves as a powerful reminder that many women face anxiety, particularly in the context of motherhood. By sharing her journey, she not only advocates for mental health awareness but also offers hope and encouragement to those navigating their own struggles. Remember, you are not alone on this journey, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Tags: #AnxietyAwareness #MentalHealthMatters #Motherhood #Therapy #PersonalGrowth #PandemicParenting #CourtneyDevich #RachaelElmore #Inspiration Find her book here. [https://www.amazon.com/Mamas-Got-Anxiety-Going-Steal/dp/0800742796/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2VVGQYD9YVH6Z&keywords=courtney+devich&qid=1681397885&sprefix=courtney+devic%2Caps%2C435&sr=8-1] Connect with the amazing Courtney here. [https://courtneydevich.com/?page_id=1485] https://courtneydevich.com https://www.amazon.com/Mamas-Got-Anxiety-Going-Steal/dp/0800742796/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2VVGQYD9YVH6Z&keywords=courtney+devich&qid=1681397885&sprefix=courtney+devic%2Caps%2C435&sr=8-1

Not a Mom, But Still in the Village: How to Show Up When Our Lives Look Different with Mary Kate Hunt, Licensed Therapist

In this conversation, Mary Kate Hunt and Rachael Elmore explore the profound themes of counseling, community, and the roles of singles and parents within the body of Christ. They discuss the challenges of navigating chronic illness, the importance of mentorship, and how to foster belonging in spiritual families. The dialogue emphasizes the value of all individuals, regardless of their marital status or parental role, and highlights the need for vulnerability and support in building meaningful relationships. * The Sacred Role of Counseling * Navigating Life with Chronic Illness “We all have a place in God's plan.” “We need to normalize the spiritual family.” “You are not wrong. You are not bad.” For more information and therapeutic support for ALL moms in all seasons, find my book here: [https://a.co/d/08RNUYUN] Counseling • Chronic Illness • Motherhood • Community • Spiritual Family • Mentorship • Support • Friendship • Autism • Religious Trauma * Counseling is a sacred role that allows for deep connection. * Chronic illness can shape one's perspective on motherhood and community. * Singles can play vital roles in family dynamics, offering support and love. * Community is essential for both singles and parents, fostering belonging. * Vulnerability is key to building meaningful relationships. * The body of Christ includes all individuals, regardless of marital status. * Mentorship from non-parents can greatly benefit children. * It's important to recognize the value of all roles in the community. * Prayer and action are powerful tools for support. * Counseling can address various issues, including autism and religious trauma. 00:00 Introduction to Counseling and Personal Journeys 05:06 Navigating Chronic Illness and Motherhood 12:30 The Role of Community in Parenting 18:42 Believing in Each Other: The Power of Friendship 23:49 Encouragement and Support in Relationships 26:21 Finding Community in Faith 28:04 The Importance of Spiritual Family 29:46 Building Resilience Through Relationships 31:09 The Role of Mentorship in Child Development 34:14 Dads Supporting Singles in the Community 39:10 Normalizing Spiritual Family Dynamics 42:30 Leading by Example in Community 44:23 Counseling and Community Support Connect with Mary Kate here: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/mary-kate-hunt-madison-al/1572247 [https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/mary-kate-hunt-madison-al/1572247] Instagram Handle: @spoonfulofmk

Grief, Yet Held: Hope in the Middle of Loss

Grief is a journey none of us expect to walk, yet so many of us will face it in different seasons of life. In this deeply honest and tender conversation, we explore what it means to experience profound loss while still being held by faith. In this episode, I sit down with ministry leader Cheri Fletcher, who shares the heartbreaking story of losing her child to cancer. With courage and vulnerability, Cheri opens up about the reality of grief—the questions, the pain, and the moments where God’s presence felt both distant and deeply near. Together, we talk about the long journey of grief after such an unimaginable loss and how faith and spirituality can provide comfort, hope, and strength when life feels shattered. Cheri also shares the ways she has experienced God holding her through the hardest moments. We also discuss how we can better support those who are grieving—offering practical insight for friends, family members, and faith communities who want to show up with compassion and care. Whether you’re walking through grief yourself or supporting someone who is, this conversation is a reminder that even in our deepest sorrow, we are not alone. In this episode, we discuss: * Cheri Fletcher’s journey of grief after losing her child to cancer * How faith and spirituality can bring comfort and hope in seasons of loss * Honest reflections on navigating life after unimaginable grief * Practical tools for supporting someone who is grieving If this conversation resonates with you, consider sharing it with someone who may need encouragement in their own season of grief. grief, loss, cancer, motherhood, faith, hope, healing, support, legacy, mental health, emotional health For additional support, check out A Mom Is Born: Biblical Wisdom and Practical Advice for Taking Care of Yourself and Your New Baby, where Rachael Hunt Elmore blends spiritual encouragement with practical tools to help you thrive in the early days of motherhood. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage 01:58 Cheri's Story of Grief and Loss 06:52 Navigating the Pain of Loss 11:03 The Challenge of Communication in Grief 16:30 Understanding Grief and Its Impact 22:19 The First Year of Grief 27:33 The Evolution of Roles in Grief 30:15 Finding Purpose Amidst Pain 31:25 The Power of Praise in Grief 32:51 Finding Comfort in Faith 34:59 Cherishing Memories and Legacy 37:53 Navigating Grief and Healing 40:03 Creating Meaningful Conversations 42:59 The Journey of Grief and Community 46:01 Tools for Grieving Families 49:01 God's Presence in Grief 52:07 Hope and Assurance in Loss Resources: Website:  cherifletcher.com [http://cherifletcher.com/] Private Grief Group:   cherifletcher.com/now-what-a-quiet-place-in-grief [http://cherifletcher.com/now-what-a-quiet-place-in-grief] For women who have lost a loved one or the life they once knew Facebook: www.facebook.com/CheriLFletcher [http://www.facebook.com/CheriLFletcher] Instagram:  www.instagram.com/cherifletcher [http://www.instagram.com/cherifletcher]