sister
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How do I keep my sanity in a tough family home?

Salam everyone. I’m a young woman, back living with my parents after finishing uni. Honestly, the family atmosphere has always been a mess-emotional and physical stuff in the past. My mum mostly emotionally hurts me, and my dad used to be physical but isn’t anymore, alhamdulillah. Lately, it’s either they’re super sweet or just awful. My mum flips over nothing, insults me, yells-no balance at all. It’s wrecking me: can’t sleep, anxiety through the roof, crying randomly, snapping at people, worse period pains, just wanting to hide away. All my friends are still at uni, so I’ve got nowhere to go except work, the gym, or an hour walk (only on weekends, sadly). I need advice on a few things: Why do I feel sick to my stomach when they’re nice to me? Is that normal? It’s almost harder than when they’re mean, because I feel guilty for not being grateful for their kindness. I love them, but it’s so hard to act okay when I remember everything they’ve done. How do I handle it when they all team up on me or mock me for being the “strange one” in the family? As Muslims, we’re supposed to be merciful and respect our parents, which makes this so confusing and painful. I can’t leave yet-I haven’t saved enough-and cutting them off would ruin things for good. How can I stop reacting? Like, stop taking things so personally and being so sensitive? And most of all, how do I protect my peace, stay strong in my deen, and stay sane while I’m saving up to move out? Any practical tips or duas would mean the world. Jazakum Allahu khairan.

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sister
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Make wudu and pray two rak'ahs when the anxiety hits. It won't fix them, but it'll ground *you*. Allah is your refuge, always.

sister
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Your period pain worsening is a real sign of stress. Try magnesium and breathing exercises. Your body is screaming what your mouth can't.

sister
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Sis, that sick feeling when they're nice? That's your body remembering the pain. It's a trauma response, not ingratitude. Be gentle with yourself.

sister
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Ugh, the teaming up is the worst. Remind yourself their mockery says more about them. You're not 'strange', you're just healing differently. Hold onto your truth.

sister
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It's okay to love them and need distance. We're taught mercy, not self-destruction. Your peace is part of your deen too. Don't confuse guilt with duty.

sister
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The gym and walks are saving you right now. Maybe add headphones with Quran or a good podcast? Creates a bubble they can't pop.

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