![]() When originally coined, this so-called ‘syndrome’ was part of a larger cultural fascination to pathologize everything without sufficient clinical or psychological justification. Slade, PhD and President, Global Center for Religious Research, explains, “Use of the term ‘syndrome’ is an outdated label that can actually be more detrimental than helpful. While religious trauma syndrome is commonly used, many clinicians and researchers are shying away from the use of ‘syndrome.’ĭarren M. Reconsidering the Term “Religious Trauma Syndrome” For others, this can include living in more rural areas, avoiding the appearance or perception of ‘evil,’ or attending religious gatherings frequently. For some, this can include not observing holidays, going to places like movie theaters, or dressing modestly. 4 There is a deliberate and intentional effort to be disconnected and set apart from mainstream society and traditions. Often, 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. 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. Religion can easily be weaponized, and sayings can be twisted to fit the agenda of the messenger. However, this does not mean that it is non-existent or doesn’t impact millions of individuals every year. Religious Trauma Syndrome is not an actual diagnosis and is not included in the most recent version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM 5). ![]() Religious trauma can lead to an individual believing that they are inherently bad or condemned (especially if they’ve experienced purity culture)-even after they have left the religion and their previously held beliefs. Religion can impact the way that we see the world, and it can be easy to deny the existence of problems in the face of continual optimism and faith that a higher power will fix any challenge encountered, but this toxic positivity can lead to lasting harm. Something that would help me heal from religious trauma would be _.Religious trauma can stem from spiritual abuse, can impact individuals differently, and can have a devastating effect on someone’s self esteem, sense of self-worth and identity. For Reflection: Healing in The Black Church Talking with Pastors who also have a counseling expertise.Therapy/Coaching or peer support groups.Sharing and making communities aware of the impact of doctrine.Creating or seeking faith communities that are loving and supportive.Challenging Pastors/churches that create religious trauma.Setting boundaries with our church/faith communities.How do we heal and unpack religious trauma? Self judgement, internal shaming “feeling like something is wrong with you.”.Emotional, sexual or physical abuse from church leaders, family members etc, because of anti-gay beliefs.Shaming being unwed, or having an abortion.Being told not hate the sin, love the sinner.Loss of church community or family (Having to leave cause it’s unsafe or hostile).Suggesting sickness/illness brought on by lack of faith (HIV status, Cancer).Struggling with fitting in and belonging. ![]() Being unfamiliar with mainstream culture/isolation.How can it impact Black Gay men and LGBT people? Social: Loss of social network, family rupture, social awkwardness, sexual difficulty, or sexual compulsion/addictionĬultural: Unfamiliarity with secular world “fish out of water” feelings, difficulty belonging, information gaps (e.g.evolution, modern art, music, etc.) Physical: Disembodiment/Disconnection from body, high blood pressure, headaches How does trauma from Black churches show up?Ĭognitive: negative beliefs about self-ability/self-worth, binary thinking, perfectionism, difficulty with decision-makingĮmotional: Depression, anxiety, anger, grief, loneliness, difficulty with pleasure, loss of meaning In some settings the symptoms of religious trauma can be similar to that of complex post-traumatic stress disorder. It often involves the trauma of breaking away from a controlling environment, lifestyle, or religious figure. Religious trauma syndrome (RTS) occurs when an individual struggles with leaving a religion or a set of beliefs. “The Black Church can no longer ignore the contributions of Black gay Christians and must begin the reformation work towards inclusivity.”
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