Acknowledge your experiences and feelings:
Religious trauma can be profound and complex. Recognize that feelings of sadness, anger, confusion, or guilt are entirely normal. By allowing yourself to feel and acknowledging what you’ve been through, you’re taking the first step toward healing.
Seek support from those with lived experience:
Finding a community of others who have had similar experiences can be incredibly supportive. Online support groups, forums, and people with firsthand experience can offer understanding and recognition, helping you feel less alone in your journey.
Rediscover yourself:
Many former members struggle with a distorted self-image shaped by the organization’s beliefs. Discover your own values, interests, and identity by embracing new experiences and allowing time for self-reflection. This helps you reconnect with your authenticity.
Give yourself space for mixed emotions:
Leaving a religious community like the Jehovah’s Witnesses often brings mixed emotions. It’s normal to feel both relief and a sense of loss. Allow yourself the space to grieve what you’ve left behind, even if you know it’s best for your well-being.
Strengthen your own autonomy:
Within the Jehovah’s Witnesses, there is often strong control over behavior and choices. Work on reclaiming your autonomy by making small decisions that feel authentic to you. Making your own choices helps build self-confidence and independence.
Seek professional help for religious trauma:
Religious trauma is a recognized phenomenon and is best treated by a therapist or coach specializing in this type of trauma. With professional support, you can address specific triggers, negative beliefs, and techniques to protect yourself from overwhelming thoughts.
Establish your own values and principles:
Former members often struggle to let go of the values and norms that were imposed on them. Take the time to develop your own ethical compass, separate from imposed rules. This gives you the freedom to determine what is important to you in life, without fear of judgment.
Rediscover your social network:
Many former Jehovah’s Witnesses lose their social circle after leaving the community. Invest in building new relationships and connections with people who appreciate you for who you truly are. This can help reduce feelings of loneliness and boost your self confidence.
Practice self-care and mindfulness:
Religious trauma can exhaust both body and mind. Invest in daily self-care, such as exercise, healthy eating, meditation, and mindfulness. These practices can help reduce stress and strengthen your self-worth as you work towards inner peace and balance.
Celebrate your freedom and growth:
Every step you take, big or small, is a victory. Celebrate your courage and growth, and be proud of the path you’re on. Building a new life outside of the Jehovah’s Witnesses requires bravery and resilience. Take time to reflect on how far you’ve come.