Religious Trauma Resources

Religious Trauma is deeply distressing damage caused by the authoritarian and dogmatic indoctrination of high control religion.

These repressive religious environments are often coupled with emotional, mental, physical or sexual abuse, as well as neglect. The traumatic impact is long-lasting and invasive, altering the trajectory of emotional development and the social functioning of an otherwise healthy person.

Leaving the flock adds enormous stress, as well as feelings of abandonment and alienation. The adjustment to a new life without their social system can be a shock. Sheltered people who’ve been taught to fear the secular world often struggle to find the independent thinking, confidence, and resilience needed to rebuild their lives.

Blog Posts

When Church Hurts: Religious Trauma Syndrome

On Religious Baggage

Does the Cross Matter?

Coming Soon:

Helpful Articles

Therapists and Resources

Other Reading