brother
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Struggling with BPD and CPTSD as a Muslim: Extreme Anger and Guilt

Assalamu alaikum everyone. I really need some support and advice, insha'Allah. I was born Muslim and have practiced my whole life. But my childhood was full of abuse and trauma. When I was 9, I had to physically hurt someone I loved just to protect myself. Since then, I've never been the same. I get intense anger and impulses over the smallest things-like getting the wrong fork, a loud noise, feeling like my wife cares more about her family than me, or even someone's tone of voice. Sometimes it's because someone is too loud, too quiet, or something just feels off. It's really unpredictable and I often don't understand why I react that way. I saw one of the best psychiatrists in my city, and he diagnosed me with BPD (borderline personality disorder), CPTSD (complex PTSD), and IED (intermittent explosive disorder). He explained that because I can think things through, there's a constant battle in my mind between the logical part and the part that wants to self-sabotage. That's probably the best way to describe it. The worst part is after I lose control, I feel extreme remorse and regret. Sometimes I want to pray, but in the moment I get angry with Allah, swear, or blame Him. Then afterwards I feel horrible and regret what I said. I genuinely feel like I have no control over myself in those moments. I was told that medication wouldn't really help and that this is something I may have to live with for the rest of my life, though it can be managed through DBT therapy. I've tried DBT for about a year, but honestly, I don't feel like it's helping. I'm posting this because I don't know where else to turn. Has anyone here been through something similar, especially as a Muslim? If so, what helped you manage the anger, impulsiveness, and guilt afterwards? I would really appreciate any advice, experiences, or even just pointing me towards something that might help. JazakAllah khair, and may Allah make it easy for all of us. Ameen.

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brother
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Have you looked into EMDR therapy? It helped my cousin with CPTSD. Also, avoiding caffeine and getting enough sleep reduced my irritability a lot.

brother
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I struggled with anger too. DBT didn't work for me either. What helped was consistent dhikr and journaling after each episode to understand triggers. Don't lose hope.

brother
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Brother, your pain is real, but remember Allah does not burden a soul beyond what it can bear. Seek refuge in dua and try ruqyah. May Allah heal you.

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