-
news
-
Health
-
mental health
How I overcame the isolation of being the only person in my family to struggle with mental health
Feeling like a misfit in my own family, I silently struggled with mental stress for years. Here’s how I found my path to healing.
Image – Canva
Growing up, for a long time, I felt like a misfit in my own family. While everyone else works easily and succeeds in life, an invisible burden of mental stress eroded my ability to live like the rest. I was so scared that I couldn’t admit what I was feeling, so I bottled it up. sleepless nightsNausea, racing thoughts, and miserable days all went hand in hand, leaving no other soul in the world to know how I felt.
One day, I realized that I could not bear the burden alone. The primary step was acceptance of the fact that my feelings were valid, even if no one else understood. I started writing in a journal every day – it was my safe space to express what I couldn’t share.
The therapy was a game-changer. Talking to a professional helped me uncover my feelings and gave me tools to deal with difficult moments. I also leaned into self-care and rituals: a walk in the park, a relaxing playlist, and mindfulness exercises became my favorites.
I stopped waiting for them to “get it”; I started building a support system around and outside my family. Friends, online forums and even books became the lifeline that ended my state of shyness and loneliness.
It wasn’t easy to deal with, but I learned this: I can’t control how others view my struggles, but I can control how I heal. And that’s enough.
If you feel this way, here are five ways to cope when you’re the only one struggling in the family. poor mental health,
accept your feelings
Understand that it is normal to feel overwhelmed and stressed. repression It’s a habit increase stress levelsThus, writing down thoughts or talking over problems with a trusted friend or counselor can provide relief from pent-up emotions.
seek professional help
you can contact anyone therapist or counselor who can guide you coping mechanisms To suit your situation. If visiting a therapist in person seems difficult, online therapy platforms are readily available.
develop a self-care plan
Allocate a few minutes every day to do something that calms you, such as meditation, yoga, walking, or listening to soothing music. Get enough sleep and a healthy diet and keep yourself physically fit for maximum health.
Secure a support network beyond your family
Join a support group or online community. Being around people who understand the challenges you face can make you feel less isolated and give you new ways of coping.
setting boundaries with family
If your family members don’t understand the fact that you are struggling, gently let them know how much you need space or support. Use “I” statements to express yourself: “I feel overwhelmed and would appreciate some understanding.
Get the latest news live on Times Now with breaking news and top headlines from mental health, wellness and more from around the world.