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Feeling Useless After a Big Setback?

Answered 16 November 2025 at 2:44 am PKT

It's incredibly tough when a major plan falls through, especially something as life-changing as studying abroad. It's completely normal to feel disappointed, ashamed, and to doubt yourself when such a big dream is put on hold.

Main study abroad gaya tha but visa reject ho gaya. Ab lagta hai main kisi kaam ka nahi. Ghar wapas aa ke buhat sharminda hoon aur khud pe yaqeen nahi raha.

Hamza, it's absolutely understandable to feel shattered and believe you're 'kisi kaam ka nahi' right now. A visa rejection for study abroad is a huge disappointment, and it's natural to feel embarrassed and lose faith in yourself after investing so much hope and effort. Please remember, this feeling is a reaction to a difficult situation, not a reflection of your true worth.

The first thing to understand is that a visa rejection is about a specific application at a specific time, with many factors often beyond your control. It is not a judgment on your capabilities or your future. This is a setback, not a permanent failure, and it does not define who you are as a person.

To start rebuilding your confidence, try focusing on small, achievable things you can do each day. This could be learning a new skill online that you've always wanted to try, helping your family with a project, or even dedicating time to a hobby you enjoy. Each small success, no matter how minor, will remind you of your abilities and slowly build back your sense of purpose.

It's also very important to lean on people who truly support you. Talk to a trusted friend, an older sibling, or a family member who understands and encourages you, rather than focusing on 'log kya kahenge'. Their belief in you can help you remember your own strengths and remind you that you're not alone in this feeling.

Be kind to yourself during this time. Challenge those negative thoughts that tell you you're useless or not good enough. Instead, try writing down three things you are genuinely good at, or three things you have achieved in the past, no matter how small. Remind yourself that you have value and potential, regardless of this specific outcome.

This experience might feel like the end of the world right now, but it could also open doors to unexpected new paths here in Pakistan that you hadn't considered before. Give yourself time to process this disappointment, then gently start exploring other opportunities that align with your goals and interests, whether that's continuing your education here, learning a trade, or finding work.

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Answered by the Depression.pk team
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