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Getting Help When Your Family Doesn't Understand

Answered 11 July 2025 at 5:05 pm PKT

It sounds incredibly difficult to be feeling low and anxious, especially when the people you expect support from dismiss your feelings. Please know that what you are experiencing is real, and you are not alone in feeling this way or in facing family misunderstanding.

I've been feeling very low and anxious lately, but I can't tell my parents. Unko lagta hai yeh sab 'nakhrey' hain aur Allah ka zikr karoon toh theek ho jaungi. How do I seek help without them judging me?

It's completely normal to feel low and anxious, and these feelings are real, not just 'nakhrey' or something you can simply pray away. Many people in Pakistan struggle with their mental health, and it's often misunderstood by family who mean well but don't know how to respond. Your feelings are valid, and it's brave of you to seek help.

Since talking to your parents directly is challenging right now, consider confiding in someone else you trust. Is there an elder cousin, an auntie, an older sibling, or a very close friend who might be more understanding? Sometimes, having just one person who listens without judgment can make a huge difference and help you feel less alone.

There are also small, private steps you can take for yourself. Try keeping a journal where you can write down your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. Gentle physical activity, like a short walk in a quiet place, or listening to calming music, can also help manage anxiety. Even small routines, like dedicating a few minutes each day to deep breathing exercises, can offer some relief.

Educating yourself about what you're feeling can be empowering. Understanding the symptoms of anxiety and low mood can help you put words to your experiences and realize that many others go through similar things. You can find reliable information on websites like ours, which might also help you explain things better to a trusted person if you decide to open up.

Regarding the religious aspect, faith can be a great source of comfort and strength for many, but mental health challenges are not a sign of weak faith or a punishment from Allah. Just like physical illnesses, mental health conditions are part of the human experience. If you wish to seek religious guidance, look for a kind and understanding scholar or spiritual leader who approaches these topics with compassion and knowledge, rather than judgment.

Remember, you don't have to carry this burden alone. You can always talk to Zara here at depression.pk privately and without judgment. We are here to listen and help you explore options that work for you, keeping your circumstances in mind. Your well-being matters, and taking these steps for yourself is a sign of strength.

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Answered by the Depression.pk team
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