Joy-Anna Duggar opens up about postpartum depression: ‘The darkest time of my life’

Joy-Anna Forsyth (née Duggar), known from her childhood on TLC’s 19 Kids and Counting, now has a family of her own with her husband Austin Forsyth and their three children, Gideon, Evelyn, and Gunner. Recently, she spoke candidly about her experience with postpartum depression during an episode of The Unplanned Podcast.

Joy-Anna revealed that after giving birth to her youngest child, Gunner, she faced one of the hardest periods of her life. “It was like the darkest time of my life,” she shared emotionally.

Her struggle with postpartum depression wasn’t new—she described similar feelings after her first child, Gideon, but noted that it was most intense after Gunner’s birth. She recalled feeling “in a fog” for six months after Gideon was born, and while her experience after Evelyn’s birth was milder, she still faced challenges.

The severity of her postpartum depression after Gunner, she believes, stemmed from not taking proper care of herself during her pregnancy. “I wasn’t getting the right food, vitamins, or rest,” Joy-Anna admitted. Beyond physical changes, she also faced relational and spiritual struggles as her siblings, Jinger Duggar Vuolo and Jill Duggar Dillard, published books that led her to question her upbringing and faith.

Initially, Joy-Anna felt fine post-birth, but two and a half months later, everything changed. She said, “I would wish that on no mom, but I know a lot of moms go through it.” For months, she struggled to get out of bed and manage daily responsibilities, feeling overwhelmed by spiritual doubts.

Despite the struggle, she decided to seek help. “I finally got to a point where I was like, ‘I’m not doing good. I’m struggling,’” she shared. Her doctor suggested medication, but Joy-Anna chose to start with prescription-strength vitamins after bloodwork indicated a deficiency. With support from her husband, who prepared meals and ensured she had proper nutrition, she began making lifestyle changes.

Recognizing the importance of mental health, Joy-Anna also decided to stop breastfeeding Gunner for her well-being. “At 6 months postpartum, I knew it was better for my mental health to stop.” The change, along with healthier eating and physical activity, led to a significant improvement.

Joy-Anna also found strength through connection, seeking guidance from a Christian counselor and bonding with other moms facing similar struggles. A fellow mom at her church encouraged her to seek help, which she now wishes she had done sooner.

Reflecting on her journey, Joy-Anna shared, “I was fighting for months to feel better, but I wouldn’t change that season for anything. I’ve grown so much.”