From our counseling center partner, Maristan:

In light of recent events, we at Maristan feel it is crucial to address the importance of creating safe, respectful spaces for spiritual and personal growth. 

Spiritual abuse—when individuals misuse their position of authority within religious settings to manipulate, control, or harm others—has deep and lasting impacts. This form of abuse not only damages individuals but can also shake the foundation of their faith, leading some to feel disconnected from the very beliefs meant to bring peace and healing.

We believe that accountability is essential in addressing these harms. Those who inflict such abuse must be held responsible, not only to support victims but also to protect the integrity of our communities. It’s important to remember that no single person defines our faith. Faith is rooted in compassion, justice, and kindness, and these values should guide how we respond to spiritual abuse and the structures we build to prevent it.

Spiritual abuse can leave lasting psychological impacts, including:

• Moral Confusion: The disorienting confusion arises when witnessing a religious figure partaking in harmful behaviors.
• Trauma Bonds: A powerful emotional bond that victims may develop with their abuser, complicating their ability to separate from the abuse.
• Nonresistance to Prolonged Abuse: A tendency to endure prolonged harm due to the authority figure’s status.
• Failure to Report Abuse: Victims often face feelings of fear, guilt, or isolation, making it difficult to seek help.

If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of spiritual abuse, please know that you are not alone. There are resources, safe spaces, and support systems to help you heal, reclaim your well-being, and find safety. At Maristan, we are committed to fostering environments where trust and compassion form the foundation and every individual can feel secure in their faith journey and personal well-being.

Resources for Healing and Support:

• The Hurma Project – Dedicated to safeguarding the sanctity of individuals within religious spaces.
• The FYI’s Spiritual Abuse Toolkit – Provides guidance and resources for identifying and healing from spiritual abuse.
• Stanford Muslim Mental Health and Islamic Psychology Lab: Psychological Sequelae of Spiritual Abuse – Research and insights into the psychological impact of spiritual abuse.

If you have any questions or need additional support, please don’t hesitate to contact us at Maristan. Let’s work together to foster compassionate, accountable spaces for all.