Are you looking to break away from Love Has Won (or a similar group), but just not sure where to start?  Many members living at mission do not have access to the group's finances.  They are not employed outside of LHW, and therefore, have little to no money or belongings to call their own.  They rely heavily on the group for necessities such as food, shelter, and transportation.  Due to these circumstances, the very thought of starting fresh, and rebuilding an identity outside of Love Has Won can be stressful and scary.  To help make the process a little easier, we've put together a collection of valuable materials, or what we like to call, a "Fresh Start Toolbox."  This virtual toolbox is loaded with resources and suggestions for individuals who have grown dependent on an unsafe group for their basic needs, and wish to become self-supporting.  

​

A great place to begin is by reviewing Dare to Doubt's 5 Tips for Leaving a Cult:

​

​

1. Make a plan

"If you need somewhere safe to go, reach out to a family member or friend outside the group. Say you need help...If you don't know anyone outside the group, find out where the nearest local police station or domestic shelter is and how to get there. Notice any bus stops nearby. Just get on a bus if you need to..." 

2. Pack a go-bag

"...Try to have a bag or backpack ready with a change of clothes, food, and filled water bottles, unless you're afraid the bag might be discovered...Be prepared for an opportunity to leave by keeping money and a cell phone on you if you have them. Wear sturdy shoes."  

​

3. Don't tell anyone you're leaving

"They may try to talk you out of it, block you, or report your plan to others...Try to go about your business as usual to avoid suspicion."

​

4. Reach out to others who have left

"Talking with others who have left your group can help encourage and validate your decision to leave. They might even be able to help you..."

​

5. Get professional counseling

"There are therapists and experts specializing in cult recovery who want to help you. Many were once cult members themselves. Say you are in a destructive group and need help leaving..."

​

"Leaving a high-demand group often isn't easy. Remember the reasons you doubt or distrust them. Remember YOU are the one looking out for YOU."  (To view more from Dare to Doubt: Detaching from Harmful Belief Systems, visit their website!)

Next, collect as much information as you can on resources near you which can help by providing materials and guidance.  Feel free to email us at risingabovelhw@gmail.com with additional questions or details about your situation.  Your information will not be shared outside of the Rising Above team without your consent.

​

The late Margaret Thaler Singer, expert in coercive persuasion and board member of the Cult Awareness Network, wrote,

​

"From the very early days of my work with ex-cult members, I have noticed that those who have been deprogrammed or counseled out make the easiest, best, and quickest returns to normal life. Other professionals have found the same thing, which suggests that the education and information provided by exit counseling may be extremely valuable, helping those leaving cults to understand their own situation and feelings and to adapt to life in the regular world."

​

To read more about leaving a cult by Margaret Thaler Singer, click here. For more information regarding exit counseling, see below.

​