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Feeling lonely and restless after a loved one's passing

Asked by Ayesha, 60, Rawalpindi · 23 July 2025 at 8:48 pm PKT

Ayesha ji, it is completely understandable to feel this way, especially at night, after such a profound loss. Grief has its own timeline, and it's okay to still feel your loss deeply even after years have passed.

Mere shohar ka inteqal hue teen saal ho gaye hain. Raat ko bohut akela mehsoos hota hai, aur neend nahi aati. Ye gham kab tak rahega?

Ayesha ji, many people feel exactly what you describe. The sadness of losing your husband doesn't just disappear; it changes over time, becoming a part of you. It's not about the grief ending, but about finding ways to live with it and gradually finding moments of peace and comfort again.

The nights can be especially difficult when you feel that emptiness. It's common for sleep to be disturbed during times of grief. Trying to establish a gentle evening routine can sometimes help. This could be something simple like having a cup of warm milk, listening to a calming recitation, or reading a book that brings you peace before bed.

To help with the loneliness, especially during the day, try to connect with people who care about you. This could be your children, grandchildren, siblings, or trusted friends. Even a short phone call or a visit can make a big difference. Sometimes, just talking about your day, or even remembering good times with your husband, can bring a sense of connection.

Many women in our society feel that they must carry their grief silently, but it's important to allow yourself to feel and express your emotions. Please remember that taking care of your own well-being is not selfish; it's necessary. Your loved ones would want you to find comfort and peace.

During the day, try to find small activities that bring you a sense of purpose or a little bit of joy. This could be tending to a small garden, helping with chores, or engaging in light conversation. These small distractions can help break the cycle of constant sadness and give you something else to focus on for a while.

If you find yourself dwelling on sad thoughts at night, sometimes writing them down in a simple notebook can help clear your mind. You don't need to write perfectly; just letting your feelings flow onto the page can be a release. Then, try to shift your focus to something comforting, like prayers or positive memories.

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