Resource Series #6: JW.Support
Leaving a cult can be a harrowing experience. When you’ve been cut off from the real world, you may run into lots of logistical and conceptual problems that make the outside harder to navigate. The Jehovah’s Witnesses are counting on your lack of experience with the outside world to send you running back to them.
But you don’t need them in your life. There are lots of great resources out there that can offer you help leaving a cult. Today, we’re going to talk about JW.Support and what they have to offer.
Who Is JW.Support?
Founded in 2019, JW.Support is a British-based support website for young ExJWs and current JWs who are questioning their faith. They provide information and supportive resources in four key areas that exJWs may have serious struggles with.
While their articles are useful for many who have left, it is most tailored to immediate needs. For example, they have actionable advice for people who have been kicked out of home, who need advice on becoming independent, or want to know how to make friends on the outside.
What Does JW.Support Do?
This support group provides a great deal of practical advice for many aspects of the journey away from the JWs. Their articles are broken into four categories, each one addressing the challenges that people who are PIMO (physically in, mentally out), recent ExJW, or questioning may face. Their website is easy to navigate and has an emergency escape button for folks whose Witness family may monitor their internet use.
Their support section holds important information that can help during difficult periods– such as when you first leave or are making plans to leave. This includes coping strategies and where to go for individual support and aid.
Their strategy section helps you plan for the future. It also holds information to help you approach loved ones, including those who are still in the organization.
The experience section contains information and stories from young ExJWs to show how they survived and worked through many of the same doubts and fears you might be feeling. It also includes stories from older ExJWs to show you what’s possible once you’re on the outside.
Finally, the beliefs section contains information about JW doctrine. These articles break down why key pieces of the Watchtower’s highly edited scriptures are wrong. They’re short and easy to remember, and can be very helpful for those who are questioning.
How Can JW.Support Help Ex-Jehovah’s Witnesses?
JW.Support is intended to help young people trying to leave the organization. They provide practical information about life outside of the Witnesses, and encourage self-espression and personal growth.
In addition to helping with practical elements of your exit, JW.Support want you to feel like you have hope. The Watchtower society actively encourages fear and hopelessness through their Armageddon predictions, and JW.Support has resources for the mental health issues that can develop in the fallout. This includes depression, anxiety, and even addiction.
If you’re looking for support as a young ExJW, this is a great resource. However, be advised that it is primarily a UK resource, so some social safety net resources may not be available if you’re approaching this site from the US.
Important Links
This is the 6th post in our resource series. You can see some of the others here:
Check out our Resource Series tag for more information and to see all of these great resources.