Ex-Church of Christ Support Board

Hello everyone,

I am new to the group and so thankful I found it! I am a 24 year old woman who was raised in a strict church of christ of which my father is an elder. I left around 2 years ago and things with my family have been tumultuous and awkward ever since. I am very much suffering from depression and anxiety because of the perfectionism I put on myself as a result of growing up in the church and with narcissistic elder for a father. I'm so grateful for this board and this site because for a long time I was unable to see that what I experienced was dysfunctional, abusive, and cult-like. I'm just starting to deal with all of those things and stand up to my parents. I'm looking forward to finding some more validation and any tips or tricks this ppl in this forum have used to release themselves from the hold the church and a coc family can have.

Best,
Candace

Welcome Candace, Hope you can get what you need from us here.

Welcome Candace!

Since leaving, I've struggled (too) with the anxiety, depression, and even anger over those expectations I put on myself and those others put on me while in the church. I have some really bad days, moments, where I have to be reminded that I can't beat myself up over any expectation other than to just be myself. Just want you to know that you're definitely not alone in that battle.

check out some of the book suggestions under Spiritual Abuse - for a start!

Welcome!

Welcome, glad to have you here!

Welcome Candace! I'm so sorry to hear about what all has happened in the last two years. I find joy in just reading my Bible when I feel anxious about my departure. Once I was out of the CoC, I read the Bible (in context for once) with an open mind - and found joy knowing that Jesus died for me, and I can have a personal relationship with my Creator, and not fear Him like I did for all those years.