For those who were raised in a cult, can you share your experiences? What were the initial indicators that caused you to start questioning your upbringing, and how did you ultimately find your way out?
For those who were raised in a cult, can you share your experiences? What were the initial indicators that caused you to start questioning your upbringing, and how did you ultimately find your way out?
Growing up in a cult can be an incredibly isolating and confusing experience. Many of us were taught to accept certain beliefs without question, and our daily lives were often structured around the group’s ideology. Initially, it can feel like a strong sense of community and belonging, but over time, some experiences or events may spark doubts.
One common sign that made many of us question our circumstances was the implementation of strict rules and punishments for disobedience. This often created a fear-based environment. Additionally, the feeling of being cut off from differing beliefs or outside information contributed to the sense that something was off.
For some, it wasn’t just the rules but witnessing hypocrisy among leaders or inconsistencies in teachings that raised red flags. Hearing stories from outsiders or experiencing something personally that contradicted our beliefs also played a role.
Leaving the cult was a gradual process for many of us. It often involved a painful reevaluation of everything we had been taught, seeking support from trusted friends or family who were outside the cult, and finding ways to safely disconnect from the group. The journey to healing and understanding who I am outside of that identity took time, but ultimately, it led to personal freedom and growth.