Growing up, for a very long time, I felt like a misfit in my own family. While everyone else seemed to do things with ease and succeed in life, an invisible weight of mental stress sapped my ability to live mine like the rest of them. I was too terrified to admit what I felt, so I kept it bottled up inside. The sleepless nights, nausea, rapid-fire outlet of thoughts, and sorrowful days all went hand in hand without another soul in the world knowing how I felt.
One day, I realised I could not carry the burden on my own. The primary step was the acknowledgement of the fact that my feelings were valid, even though no one else understood. I began writing in a journal daily—it was my safe space to express what I could not share.
Therapy was the game-changer. Talking to a professional helped me unpack my emotions and gave me tools to navigate tough moments. I also leaned into self-care and rituals: a walk in the park, a comforting playlist, and mindfulness exercises became my go-to.
I stopped waiting for them to "get it"; I started building a support system around and beyond my family. Friends, online forums, and even books became the lifeline that ended my state of shame and loneliness.
Coping was not easy, but I learned that: I may not control how others view my struggles, but I can control how I heal. And that's enough.
If you feel that way too, here are five ways to cope when you're the only one in the family struggling with poor mental health:
Admit Your Feelings
Understand that it is normal to feel overwhelmed and stressed. Repression tends to increase stress levels. Thus, journaling thoughts or talking out problems with a trusted friend or counsellor can relieve pent-up emotions.
Seek Professional Help
You can also seek contact with a therapist or counsellor who can guide you through coping mechanisms tailored to your situation. Online therapy platforms are readily available if visiting a therapist in person feels daunting.
Develop a Self-Care Plan
Allocate a few minutes every day to doing something that calms you, like meditation, yoga, walking, or listening to soothing music. Get enough sleep, and a healthy diet, and keep yourself physically fit for maximum well-being.
Secure a Support Network Other Than Your Family
Join a support group or an online community. Being around people who understand the challenges you face can make you feel less isolated and give you new ways of coping.
Boundary Setting with Family
If your family members do not understand the fact that you are struggling, gently tell them how much you need space or support. Use "I" statements to express yourself: "I feel overwhelmed and would appreciate some understanding.
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