Episode 86 | Religious Trauma

In today's episode of Psych Talk, I discuss the topic of religious trauma. Religious trauma can be defined as "pervasive psychological damage resulting from religious messages, beliefs, and experiences." Although religion and spirituality can have beneficial effects on individuals' mental health, for many religion is not a positive experience and can be extremely harmful. In this episode, I discuss what religious trauma is and describe various areas in which individuals have experienced religious trauma including sexism, purity culture, mental health, and messages about the LGBTQ+ community. I discuss the impact and outcomes of religious trauma, as well as ways individuals can start healing from their trauma. This episode touches on many things that may be difficult for individuals to hear, whether it is due to their personal experiences or challenging beliefs that they previously held. I also acknowledge that much of the information shared in this episode may appear one sided, only focusing on the negative aspects of religion. This is intentional, as the focus of this episode is on aspects of religion that many may find traumatic, or at minimum, harmful. Ways to Work With Me: Mind Over Matter LGBTQ+ Affirming Masterclass Be a guest on my podcast Resources: Anti-Racism Resources LGBTQ+ Affirming Resources The Helping Professional's Guide to Boundary Setting Connect with Me: Follow me on IG @jessicaleighphd Follow the podcast on IG @psych.talk.podcast Follow me on TikTok @jessicaleighphd Join my Facebook community: Grow Through What You Go Through Sponsors & Collaborations: BetterHelp Intro/Outro Music: Life of Riley by Kevin MacLeod Music License Awakening Together, Relaxing into Happiness with William Cooper, M.Th., LPC Experience Awakening....Relaxing into your Being and, therefore, Happiness. William has... Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify Support the show