Religious trauma syndrome (RTS) was officially named in 2011 by psychologist Marlene Winell, although this condition has likely existed for hundreds (if not thousands of years). Individuals with RTS come from high-control religions/denominations that rely heavily on fear as a foundational principle- that not doing the right thing will result in an eternity of torment after death. Many people with RTS have also experienced spiritual abuse, which is the use of spiritual or religious beliefs to control, manipulate, or instill fear to force conformity.
RTS can occur in any individual who chooses to leave a high control religious group, many of whom lose family and friends in the process. While RTS is not an official diagnosis YET, the associated symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and a whole host of other mental health conditions are. LGBTQIA+ individuals who have spent a lifetime attempting to conform to religious norms and women leaving patriarchal religions are at a disproportionately higher risk for developing RTS.
The good news is that acknowledgement of RTS and its long-term effects are gaining more and more traction in mental health circles and a number of mental health practitioners are now specializing in treating this unique condition. If you or someone you know is suffering from the effects of RTS or spiritual abuse, don’t be afraid to seek help. Your experience and feelings are valid and help is available.