Does religion have lasting negative effects on mental health?

[lil_davey K]

Okay without going into great detail, I opened my eyes to what my religion was REALLY about, a few years ago.

If you were once a deeply religious person you will understand the stress and shock of discovering your religion was never actually true, the fear of going to hell for rejecting my religion made me lose weight and everything & I couldn't concentrate on anything, it was like constantly being on a bad trip, however I have overcome that in recent months and have never been happier, finally, and I am 99.9% sure that leaving my religion was the right decision. I am 19 and I feel like Im only starting to live now.

From time to time I get very fearful though, especially if I've been at the place of worship again (which I am pressured into attending occasionally by my family). Should I cut all ties with that place?

Do you think religion is a form of mental abuse? Anyone else have such experiences?