Religious Trauma

While mental health awareness is becoming more common in today's society, its common to sweep religious trauma under the rug. Many people think it's not valid or simply don't understand it. This carrd is here to educate you on the topic, give you ways you can help, and resources to learn more.

TRIGGER WARNING: Religious trauma, mentions of abuse

What is Religious Trauma?

Religious trauma can be defined as "symptoms that arise in response to stressful or traumatic religious experiences." (Restoration Counseling Seattle). This can be any kind of trauma, such as physical, emotional, sexual, etc.

Examples of Religious Trauma

-Implementing the fear of hell/doomsday
-Teaching that who they are is a sin/unholy
-Purity culture
-Making you feel a sense of guilt/shame for human desires
-Being outcasted for who you are
-Being deemed as lesser because of things you cannot change (race, sexuality, gender, etc)
-Leaders hold all the power in a corrupt way

These are just some of the many examples of religious trauma.

How to help your friends/family with religious trauma

Listen to their experiences: Even if you are a part of the religion that has caused someone harm, listen to their experiences. Do not undermine or invalidate their trauma just because you believe in this religion.

Ask them what their triggers are: Especially if you are close with the person, ask them what triggers them. This shows that you care as well as helps you make sure that you don't unintentionally hurt them.

Offer your love and support: When your family member or friend is going through a tough time with their religious trauma, offer your love and support. Ask if there's anything you can do to help, ask if they would like someone to talk to, and let them know that they are loved.

You are not alone.

As someone who has also gone through religious trauma, there is a whole community of people out there who can relate to your experiences. I know it's hard not to feel alone, but know people have gone through similar experiences as well.

Thank you for taking the time to educate yourself.

Religious trauma isn't as heavily spoken about, and you being willing to educate yourself means so much to the people who suffer from it. Once again, thank you.

Thank you.

Please share this carrd around social media, with friends, etc.

Made by: Janessa Machado
IG: @janessaonbway, @nessawritess
Twitter: @janessaaamarie