Recovery from the Cult Experience
Some individuals, at some time in their lives, feel the need for a group
experience. For many, it is the only way to escape even more
difficult personal, social or family problems. The joining of a group,
even one perceived as a New Religious Movement or cult, is a way of
separating from that which is felt to be damaging the individual. The "cult persona" that the individual adopts may be
only a temporary mask required whilst that individual makes the
necessary changes in themselves to restore balance, functionality or even happiness. The
group and group consciousness can be used as a shield, or protection, acting
against that which is hurting them. Or even used as a weapon to attack others with.
Often those that wish to
"save" the cult member are those that are causing, or hold alternative
values and beliefs that are causing, the very problems the individual
feels that they need to escape from in the first place. If you are a
friend or family of a B.K. or ex-B.K. - or other sect member - be
cautious in the manner in which you approach these issues. Wrong actions
at this time may drive this person away from you forever. It may also
be that you too need to change and have something to learn from these
experiences.
The BKWSU provides no exit strategy for individuals leaving it. The ex-BK is, to use the terms of their god, "the lowest of the low". Lower than an "Untouchable". An individual that has thrown away their eternal fortune, renounced virtues to take up vices again. The depth of influence and indoctrination of
the BKWSU practices can take years for individuals to come to terms with. Leaving, picking up on lost years and adapting back into society is not easy. Generally, there comes a point in an ex-group member's life where help
is needed. In some case it can be quite severe.
BrahmaKumaris.info has no alternative religion to offer anyone. We can merely hope to share our experiences with you and offer support during difficult moments. If you, or someone you know, is suffering from problems
following their experience in or with the BKWSU and needs help, please use the discussion forum at the address following, from where it may be possible to contact someone local to you or experience help via the internet, BrahmaKumaris.Info Forum.
This is an entirely independent forum and meeting place with no connection to the BKWSU. Useful links may be found on our Links page.
The following general leaflets are available which were produced by the Cult Information Centre;
• Caring for cult victims
• Coping with stress
• Families of cult victims.
