Fading

A gradual drifting away from religious beliefs or practices, often unnoticed at first. It’s not an abrupt rejection, but a slow detachment that can be emotional, spiritual, or behavioral.

• You used to pray every morning and night, but now weeks go by without a single prayer.

• You still go to church with your family, but you mostly sit in silence, feeling like an outsider.

• You used to feel inspired by reading sacred texts, but now you skim them without focus.

Potential clinical implications (especially in high control settings)

• Fading can cause tension with family or religious peers who notice your shift.

• You might fear judgment, experience guilt, or feel pressured to "fake it," leading to emotional stress.

• The loss of meaning or spiritual framework can trigger sadness, depression, or existential fear.