Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Mental & Emotional Health, Mental Health & Support, Mood Disorders, Self-Harming, The Well

Understanding Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a chronic mood condition characterized by alternating periods of elevated mood (mania or hypomania) and depression. These shifts can affect energy levels, sleep patterns, behavior, and the ability to function in daily life (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Although the exact cause remains unknown, a combination of genetic, biochemical, and environmental factors is… Read More Understanding Bipolar Disorder

Mental & Emotional Health, Mental Health & Support, Relationships & Family Life, The Well, Women's Issues

Supporting Women Diagnosed with Autism in Adulthood

When a woman receives a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in adulthood—especially while managing complex roles such as motherhood, partnership, or a professional career—it can be both validating and overwhelming. Many women report years of masking their differences, struggling with burnout, and feeling “different” without understanding why. This guide shares autism-related books and resources… Read More Supporting Women Diagnosed with Autism in Adulthood

Anger Management, Family Conflict, Mental & Emotional Health, Mental Health & Support, Mood Disorders, Relationship Issues, The Well

Understanding and Managing Anger: Tools for Emotional Wellness

Anger is a natural human emotion—one that everyone experiences. At its core, anger is a response to perceived threats, injustice, or unmet needs. While anger itself is not inherently harmful, how we express and manage it can significantly affect our relationships, mental health, and overall well-being. At Barksdale Missions, we believe in holistic, compassionate approaches… Read More Understanding and Managing Anger: Tools for Emotional Wellness

Addiction, Mental & Emotional Health, Mental Health & Support, Self-Harming, The Well

Understanding Addiction: A Whole-Person Approach to Recovery

Addiction is a chronic and complex condition that affects the brain, behavior, and overall well-being of individuals and families. Whether related to substances such as alcohol, opioids, or stimulants—or to behaviors such as gambling or compulsive internet use—addiction is more than a personal failure. It is a medical condition with biological, psychological, social, and spiritual… Read More Understanding Addiction: A Whole-Person Approach to Recovery

Anger Management, Anxiety, Faith & Well-being, Mental & Emotional Health, Mental Health & Support, Postpartum Support, Relationships & Family Life, Self-Harming, The Well, Women's Issues

52 Gentle Ways to Lower Stress and Reclaim Calm

At Barksdale Missions, we believe that healing starts with intentional, sustainable care—body, mind, and spirit. Stress may be part of life, but it doesn’t have to rule your day. Whether you’re navigating parenthood, managing mental health, or simply trying to feel more grounded, these 52 gentle strategies are here to help. You don’t have to… Read More 52 Gentle Ways to Lower Stress and Reclaim Calm

Blended Families, Couples Counseling, Custody Issues, Divorce, Family Conflict, Marital Counseling, Parenting & Child Development, Relationship Issues, Relationships & Family Life, The Well

Co-Parenting After Divorce: Essential Tasks for Parents and Kids

Divorce is a major life transition. For parents, it can feel like a personal and logistical upheaval. For children, it may bring confusion, loss, and insecurity. But with the right tools and a shared commitment to co-parenting, families can not only survive but heal and grow. Whether you’re in the early stages of separation or… Read More Co-Parenting After Divorce: Essential Tasks for Parents and Kids

Birth & Baby, Childbirth, Doula, Pregnancy, Pregnancy Health, The Birth Chat

Coping Skills & Comfort Techniques for the Third Trimester and Labor

The final weeks of pregnancy bring a whirlwind of physical changes, emotional shifts, and mental preparation. While you may feel joyful and ready to meet your baby, you might also be uncomfortable, restless, or even a little nervous about labor. Whether this is your first or fifth baby, learning how to care for your body,… Read More Coping Skills & Comfort Techniques for the Third Trimester and Labor

Birth Trauma, Childbirth, Mental Health & Support, Support, The Birth Chat, Trauma, Women's Issues

Advocating for Yourself During Childbirth After Sexual Trauma: Understanding Your Rights, Choices, and Coping Tools

Childbirth is a deeply personal experience—but for survivors of sexual trauma, it can also bring unexpected triggers, fear, or vulnerability. If you’ve experienced sexual trauma, know this: you are not alone, and your voice, body, and choices matter—especially during labor and birth. This post is here to remind you that you have the right to… Read More Advocating for Yourself During Childbirth After Sexual Trauma: Understanding Your Rights, Choices, and Coping Tools

Birth & Baby, Childbirth, Pregnancy, The Birth Chat

Finding Comfort at the End of Pregnancy: Resources & Techniques for the Final Stretch

The final weeks of pregnancy can be a unique blend of excitement, discomfort, and anticipation. As your due date approaches, your body is working hard to prepare for birth—but that doesn’t mean you have to suffer through the discomfort. Whether you’re counting down the days or hoping baby arrives just a little sooner, here are… Read More Finding Comfort at the End of Pregnancy: Resources & Techniques for the Final Stretch

Birth & Baby, Mental & Emotional Health, Mental Health & Support, Mood Disorders, Postpartum, Postpartum PTSD, Postpartum Support, Pregnancy, Pregnancy Health, Support, The Birth Chat

Rattled: A Must-Read for Every New Mom Navigating Anxiety

An in-depth look at Dr. Nicole Pensak’s groundbreaking guide for navigating motherhood with compassion and science Motherhood can be beautiful—and it can be overwhelming. For new moms who find themselves anxious, uncertain, or not quite like themselves, Dr. Nicole Pensak’s book, Rattled: How to Calm New Mom Anxiety with the Power of the Postpartum Brain,… Read More Rattled: A Must-Read for Every New Mom Navigating Anxiety