Religious Trauma
Most people will experience trauma in their lifetime whether it’s a car accident, abuse or neglect, the sudden death of a loved one, a violent criminal act, exposure to the violence of war, or a natural disaster. Religious trauma, whether as a component of other trauma or inflicted directly, cuts through the human heart by severing connection with God and religious community.
While many people can recover from trauma over time with the love and support of family and friends and bounce back with resiliency, religious trauma typically severs victims from those supports, which can cause a person to live with deep emotional and spiritual pain, fear, confusion, and stress far after the experience has passed.
In these circumstances, healing often requires the support, guidance, and assistance of a knowledgeable and experienced therapist.
Trauma Symptoms
There are four types of symptoms listed in the DSM-5:
Avoidance Symptoms
- Avoiding specific locations, sights, situations, activities, and sounds that serve as reminders of the experience
- Anxiety, depression, numbness, or guilt
Re-experiencing Symptoms
- Intrusive thoughts, nightmares, or flashbacks
Hyperarousal Symptoms
- Anger, irritability, and hypervigilance
- Aggressive, reckless behavior, including self-harm
- Sleep disturbances
Negative Mood and Cognition Symptoms
- Loss of interest in activities that were once considered enjoyable
- Difficulty remembering details of the distressing experience
- Change in habits or behavior since the trauma
If you or someone you know matches the trauma symptoms listed above, I am confident that I can help and invite you to contact me today for a free consultation.