Postpartum Psychosis, Faith, and Finding Hope After a Mental Health Crisis with Amanda and Colby Taylor
Postpartum mental health struggles can be frightening and confusing, not only for the mom experiencing them but also for the spouse and family trying to understand what is happening. And when a crisis like postpartum psychosis enters the picture, it can turn a family’s world upside down.
In this episode, I’m joined by Amanda and Colby Taylor, authors of From Playgrounds to Psych Wards, to hear their deeply personal story of navigating postpartum psychosis, hospitalization, and the long road toward healing. Amanda shares how a traumatic birth at 32 weeks, a baby in the NICU, and extreme sleep deprivation preceded her mental health crisis. Colby shares what it was like to recognize that something was wrong with his wife and how he learned to support her through the uncertainty.
We also talk about the complicated intersection of faith and mental health, the role of professional care and community in healing, and how a crisis can affect both partners in a marriage. Their story is an honest reminder that healing takes time, asking for help matters, and families don't have to walk through difficult seasons alone.
Inside this episode, you'll learn:
Recognizing postpartum psychosis: Amanda shares the circumstances surrounding her traumatic birth, her baby’s NICU stay, and the early warning signs that led to a serious mental health crisis.
Supporting a spouse through a mental health crisis: Colby describes the fear and confusion of realizing something wasn't right, making difficult decisions, and learning how to respond when Amanda experienced another episode.
Navigating faith during mental health struggles: Amanda explains the challenges of distinguishing her experience of psychosis from her faith, and how she began processing what happened with God as she recovered.
What the healing process really looks like: Their journey included medication, psychiatric care, talk therapy, journaling, Scripture, exercise, prayer, friendships, patience, and grace. Amanda shares why recovery wasn't an overnight process.
How a crisis changes marriage and community: Amanda and Colby reflect on how their experience shaped their marriage, taught them the importance of showing up for one another, and opened their eyes to the power of practical support from their community.
Why spouses need support, too: Colby shares why partners and caregivers need space to process their own experiences, seek counseling, and care for their own well-being while supporting someone they love.
One thing I want every mom to remember
You don't have to pretend you're okay, and you don't have to navigate a postpartum mental health crisis alone. Seeking professional help, leaning on your community, and relying on your faith can all be part of the journey toward healing.
Recovery may take longer than you hoped, and the spouse supporting a struggling mom may need support, too. Be patient with the process, accept help when it's offered, and remember that a difficult season doesn't mean your story is over.
If you or someone you love is experiencing symptoms of postpartum psychosis or another serious mental health crisis, seek urgent professional medical help.
About Amanda and Colby Taylor
Amanda and Colby Taylor are authors, speakers, and advocates for families navigating maternal mental health challenges. After Amanda experienced postpartum psychosis following the birth of their fourth child, their family walked through hospitalization, uncertainty, and a long process of healing.
Today, they share their story to raise awareness, reduce stigma, equip spouses and loved ones, and offer hope to families facing similar struggles.
They are the authors of From Playgrounds to Psych Wards and are passionate about helping couples navigate difficult seasons with faith, support, and a commitment to keep showing up for one another.
Connect with Amanda and Colby
Book: From Playgrounds to Psych Wards, available in paperback, Kindle, and audiobook formats.
Website: Engaged Life Co.
Instagram: @theengagedlife.co
Bible study: Amanda also created a five-day YouVersion Bible study specifically for postpartum moms called Hope for the Postpartum Mom
A question for you...
What is one thing you've felt pressure to do “perfectly” as a mom that you're ready to let go of?
If this episode encouraged you, share it with another mom who is preparing for birth and could use a little more confidence, truth, and faith going into her birth experience.
Leave a Review
If this episode encouraged you, would you take a minute to leave a rating and review? Your support helps more Christian moms discover the podcast and find hope in Christ during pregnancy, postpartum, and motherhood.
After you review the show — take a screenshot and upload it here — so I can send you some happy mail with a little surprise as a thank you.
Your feedback means so much to me and helps us reach new moms who desperately need to hear that they are worthy of support!
Disclaimer: Some of the links in this episode may be affiliate links, including Amazon links. This means I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you—if you purchase them. Thank you for supporting the show!
Want More Support in the Postpartum Season?
Motherhood was never meant to be lived alone.
If you're looking for a Christ-centered community where you can bring both your practical questions and your spiritual struggles, I'd love to invite you to join the Postpartum on Purpose Community.
Each week we gather to study Scripture, pray together, worship, encourage one another, and renew our minds with God's truth. It's a place where you can be honest about the challenges of motherhood while continually being pointed back to Jesus with biblical encouragement, practical wisdom, and supportive community.
featured blogs
