Joy-Anna Duggar Seeks Mental Health Counseling

Ahead of the weekend, Counting On alum Joy-Anna Duggar Forsyth and her husband Austin Forsyth appeared on the Unplanned Podcast. The TLC alums opened up about a lot of things, but it was noteworthy that she talked about mental health. Additionally, she explained that Austin was supportive when she needed some help.

Counting On Alum Joy-Anna Duggar Struggled 

Austin Forsyth and his wife brought many talking points to the table, and it became obvious to TLC fans that he’s very supportive of his wife. So, Counting On viewers revised their opinion of him. In the past, some critics felt that he seemed reserved and cold. 

Joy-Anna Duggar had read her Sister, Jinger Vuolo’s book, Becoming Free, Indeed and it affected her profoundly. Additionally, the family had also heard about the Amazon docuseries, Shiny Happy People: Duggar Family Secrets. So, Joy started questioning her faith. And, when she was expecting her son, Gunner, she suffered from poor mental health. 

TLC Alum Austin Forsyth Supported Joy

When the TLC alums appeared on the Unplanned podcast, the news arrived that Austin encouraged his wife to talk to someone about her mental issues. This is huge, as the Duggars don’t really believe in counseling. So, she explained that she talked with a Christian counselor.

Joy-Anna Duggar explained:

The thing that probably helped me the most is I was talking to a counselor once a week. Just talking through a lot of family stuff, a lot of spiritual stuff…And so, anyway, the long answer to that question is I think it really helped me, spiritually.

The mom of three had not found the strength to deal with looking after herself during her pregnancy and seemed to struggle with an eating disorder. Depression was real, so she seemed grateful for her husband’s support, she noted, “I really appreciate that about Austin because I know not everybody has such a supportive… husband…He was constantly there supporting me.”

TLC Fans React 

Counting On fans were thrilled to hear that Austin supported his wife as she sought counseling. He went up in their estimates, and Joy was praised for her honesty. Here are some reactions:

• I learned through counseling that Happiness is a choice. I am going to pray for Joy…..I’ve never thought about doing that before….but why not? I can pray for her just like I pray for people in my life. Be Happy Joy!
• Austin! Blown away! I truly hope you see this comment and know how amazing it is to see you support Joy!
• I loved this interview. Any time someone opens up about their mental struggles it takes away a tiny bit of the stigma and that is critical to our understanding of how to help someone find relief.
• I am so glad she spoke on post-partum depression, it is so real.
• Joy was so open and vulnerable! So glad she took steps to get help. She is blessed to have a wonderful husband who gives her the love and support she needs and deserves!

What are your thoughts on Joy-Anna Duggar opening up about her mental health and the fact that Austin Forsyth encouraged her to seek counseling? Shout out in the comments below, and come back here for all your Counting On news, updates, and spoilers.