What Is Religious Trauma Syndrome (RTS)?

According to ChoosingTherapy.com, RTS occurs when one is surrounded by a strong community of like-minded individuals who see their religious path as the only way and identify those not in the religion to be bad and misguided. There is a deliberate and intentional effort to be disconnected and set apart from mainstream society and traditions.

For some, this can include not observing holidays, going to places like movie theaters, or dressing modestly. For others, this can include living in more rural areas, avoiding the appearance or perception of ‘evil,’ or attending religious gatherings frequently.

While RTS can be different depending on the religion, practices, or beliefs, it typically has a common component of fear and emotional manipulation. Individuals may be told that they will be separated from God, face social ruin, or go to hell based on their adherence to a certain set of traditions or belief.

Shame, guilt, and condemnation can be among many of the harmful messages communicated which can lead to lasting and deep mental health wounds and damage to the psyche.

An individual who decides that they will leave their religion or faith community may find themselves without a place to go. They may lose family, friends, or an extended network of individuals that they previously felt connected to.

On a deeper level, it can be common to lose your sense of self and your identity as you learn that most of the things that you knew to be true as it pertains to religion and faith were untrue. You may feel lost and find yourself at a point where you must build a new support network based on who you are outside of the religion that you left.

Note: Religious Trauma Syndrome (RTS) is not included in the most recent version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM 5). However, this does not mean that it is non-existent or doesn’t impact millions of individuals every year. Religion can easily be weaponized, and sayings can be twisted to fit the agenda of the messenger.

Read more about Religious Trauma Syndrome at these Links:

If you have experienced a crisis of faith, shifted your religious perspective, or are currently struggling to integrate your beliefs from ‘then’ into ‘now,’ I’m here to listen and sit with you.

Spiritual evolution can be a beautiful journey that includes deconstructing one’s original belief systems and crafting a new set of beliefs that integrate parts and lessons from all facets of life. This process takes time, requires vulnerability, and therapy can help.

Some things never make sense, but healing is possible. Your wounds are not your fault. Your healing is your responsibility. You do not have to heal in isolation.

If you’ve experienced anything you define as trauma and want another human to sit with you and listen to your story, the new thoughts or behaviors you now have, or the things you miss about yourself or your life from before, I’m here.