Religious trauma syndrome

Religious Trauma Syndrome (RTS) is a function of both the chronic abuses of harmful religion and the impact of severing one's connection with one's faith and faith community. It can be compared to a combination of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD).

Definition

Religious Trauma Syndrome is a term coined by Dr. Marlene Winell to name a recognizable set of symptoms experienced as a result of prolonged exposure to a harmful religious environment and/or the trauma of leaving the religion. It is related to, but distinct from, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD).

Symptoms

Symptoms of Religious Trauma Syndrome include:

• Confusion, difficulty with decision-making and critical thinking, dissociation, identity confusion
• Anxiety being in 'fight or flight' mode
• Depression, suicidal ideation
• Anger, bitterness, betrayal, grief, guilt, loss, loneliness
• Sleep and eating disorders, nightmares, sexual dysfunction, substance abuse, somatization
• Social dysfunction, relationship issues, employment issues, financial stress

Causes

Religious Trauma Syndrome is caused by both the chronic abuses of harmful religion and the impact of severing one's connection with one's faith and faith community. This can include authoritarianism, boundary violations, excessive discipline, and other forms of physical and emotional abuse.

Treatment

Treatment for Religious Trauma Syndrome should be tailored to the individual's unique experience and needs. This may include psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, group therapy, and/or medication.

See Also

• Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
• Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
• Marlene Winell