After leaving high-control religion, most of us experience a wide spectrum of emotions. One that tends to take some time before showing itself is grief. When we’re able to hold it, grief often appears in the form of what we could have had, who we could have been, and what we’re still missing now.

Whether you’re wondering if you’re in a high-control system, trying to find a new spiritual community that’s safe, or recovering from past harm, understanding the signs of a high-control religion can help you make sense of what you’re noticing.