Religious trauma, also known as spiritual abuse or religious abuse, refers to the psychological, emotional, and sometimes physical harm caused by toxic practices, beliefs, or experiences. It occurs when individuals are subjected to harmful teachings, manipulation, or oppressive behaviors within a spiritual context.

The effects of religious trauma can be long-lasting and may lead to anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, loss of faith, existential crisis, and difficulty forming relationships. Some religious communities may ostracize individuals who express doubts or diverge from the accepted beliefs, causing feelings of loneliness and abandonment. Religious teachings that emphasize sin, guilt, and shame can burden individuals with feelings of unworthiness, fear of divine punishment, and difficulty accepting oneself.