The Grove
Behind the Name Tag: How Gender Shapes LDS Missionary Experiences
Research from Madelin Pepper reveals female LDS missionaries face additional stressors including appearance pressures, weight-shaming, dismissal of concerns, and limited leadership. These gender-based challenges often go unacknowledged but significantly impact mental health. The study suggests standardized support systems and addressing systemic gender disparities could improve missionary experiences.
When the Mission Takes a Toll: New Research on Stress and Mental Health in LDS Missionaries
Uncovering the Mental Health Impact of LDS Missions
Madelin Pepper's eye-opening research reveals a concerning reality: 95% of LDS missionaries experience significant stress during service, with 62% reporting lasting negative mental health effects. Beyond the statistics, her work identifies key contributors: perfectionism culture, privacy limitations, and mismatched expectations. Most importantly, these struggles often persist long after missionaries return home—highlighting an urgent need for comprehensive support throughout the missionary journey.