Mormon Stories Podcast Devout Mormon Couple Leaves Church - Clare and Jackson Adams | Ep. 1981
Jan 8, 2025
Clare Howell Adams, a former devout Mormon, shares her struggles with anxiety, OCD, and the pressures of purity culture, alongside her husband, Jackson Adams, who discusses his battles with pornography and a difficult missionary experience. They delve into the emotional toll of faith transition, exploring topics like the impact of modesty on body image, the overwhelming shame cultivated by strict teachings, and the long-lasting effects of their missionary journeys. Together, they highlight their healing journey, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and open dialogue in overcoming their past.
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Claire's Childhood Anxiety
- Claire Adams developed anxiety, OCD, and scrupulosity as a child.
- These manifested in ritualistic prayers, checking locks, and health anxieties, particularly about cancer.
Mixed Feelings about Church
- Claire Adams, raised in Centerville, Utah, enjoyed church as a child, but talks of the second coming and 72-hour kits triggered anxiety.
- Despite enjoying singing and other aspects of church, she had anxieties about the future and how people perceived her from a young age.
The Carrot Story
- Claire's "carrot story" describes her praying and eating carrots to avoid glasses, only to need them in 7th grade.
- This experience marked an early instance of unanswered prayer, creating disappointment and confusion.