Seeking Guidance on Dealing with a Difficult Father
As-salamu alaykum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh, I am a 19-year-old Muslim woman living in the UK with my family. My father has always been very strict, but unfortunately, his behavior has crossed into abuse. When I was younger, he physically hurt me, threatened my mother seriously, and even said things that deeply hurt my spirit related to my chronic illness. He has hurled objects at me and used harsh words, even implying that Allah has cursed me because of my condition. This is just a part of what I have endured. Now that I am older, the situation has not improved. After a surgery, my doctor advised me to walk to reduce swelling, but when I stepped out for a brief 10-minute walk, my father insulted me for simply leaving the house. When I wore makeup for the first time, he threatened me severely and used many offensive names. He also forbids me from working, yet does not support me financially, so I have been quietly working since April and must come home late to avoid conflict. This secrecy feels wrong, but it helps me protect my mental peace. My father says he wants to spend time with his daughters peacefully, but every attempt ends in shouting and blame. I constantly feel uneasy around him, even during his rare moments of kindness, because his anger is unpredictable. Deep down, I want a good relationship with him, but my body instinctively keeps away. I prefer to walk long distances for appointments than to ask him for a short ride. My mother advises me to make du’a for my father, and I do so sincerely. Still, I feel overwhelmed, trapped, and judged. My activities are halal: university, work, and health walks. Yet, if I inform him of these, he uses the information against me; if I keep it to myself, I face insults. I am unsure what exactly I seek—perhaps advice or simply a chance to share my feelings. Has anyone faced similar challenges with a parent? How do you find strength and cope? Is it wrong to withhold information from him to safeguard my peace? Jazakum Allahu khairan for listening and any guidance you can offer.