Anxiety is a growing concern among mothers, with a study from the Urban Institute revealing that 13.5% of mothers experience moderate to severe anxiety. This issue has gained attention from various experts, particularly within the Christian community.
Sissy Goff, a counselor at Daystar Counseling Ministries in Nashville and co-host of the podcast “Raising Boys and Girls,” emphasizes that mothers today are under unprecedented stress and pressure. Goff states, “In 31 years of counseling kids and families, I have never seen mothers as stressed or feeling as if they are failing their own children.” She attributes this anxiety partly to social media, where idealized parenting standards can overwhelm new mothers. Goff encourages moms to trust their instincts, saying, “You know your kids better than anyone else. Trust your gut and the guidance of the Holy Spirit regarding your children’s needs.”
To help children cope with anxiety, Goff has authored a children’s book titled “Lucy Learns to be Brave,” which features a dog named Lucy who learns to embrace her courage through the love and support she receives. Goff explains, “The book teaches that trusting in God’s love can empower children to be brave and face challenges.”
Erin Mashaw, founder of “Birds on a Wire Moms,” addresses maternal anxiety through initiatives such as their annual conference themed “Peace for the Anxious Mom.” Mashaw points out that motherhood brings inherent fears and worries, as mothers often hear distressing stories about parenting. While Mashaw acknowledges the importance of practical parenting advice, she stresses that a mother’s relationship with Jesus is vital. She states, “When my kids face difficulties, what helps most isn’t a quick fix but my connection with Jesus. We aim to equip moms to grow in their faith and pass that strength onto their children.”
Mashaw’s organization also offers podcasts, devotionals, and prayer journals to support mothers in their spiritual journeys.
Abbey Wedgeworth, author of the “Training Young Hearts” children’s book series, speaks to the challenges of motherhood and anxiety. Her series, which originated from a poem written for her children, encourages kids to use their hands for good and to recognize when they misbehave. Wedgeworth highlights the importance of guiding children in understanding the proper use of their actions, stating, “When a child misbehaves, parents can remind them, ‘Did God make your mouth to bite? No, of course not.’ This opens a conversation about seeking forgiveness and making amends.”
Wedgeworth has also written a book titled “Held,” addressing pregnancy loss, and her podcast of the same name aims to provide support to grieving mothers. Additionally, she has authored a forthcoming book, “Help, I’m Ruining My Kids,” which resonates with many parents and often prompts heartfelt discussions about parenting struggles. Wedgeworth reassures mothers, saying, “Nothing you do is beyond redemption. God is at work, and you are a work in progress.”
The messages from these experts underscore the reality that motherhood can be fraught with anxiety. However, they also highlight the importance of faith and community support in navigating these challenges. Mothers are reminded that they are not alone and that their growth, alongside their children, is a journey filled with grace.
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