I am 19 years old. I lost my father last year when I was preparing for NEET. After his demise, my studies stopped due to my family’s financial condition. I started giving tuition to other children. My mother is sick and I don’t know how to help her. Last week, my girlfriend left me for not being able to give her time. I feel depressed and do not have anybody to share my feelings with. The only person I could do it with was my girlfriend. Me and my mother never talk about my dad. What should I do? ~ Anonymous

02 Jun, 2021 | 14:18

Manish, sorry to hear about your loss. It seems like you are dealing with multiple losses and haven’t got the time to process the grief attached with them. Most times, we look to do the practical thing, which is okay but don’t completely ignore your emotions. I also see that it must be difficult for you to balance everything with mum being unwell too — remember to prioritise. Many people won’t understand and it’s okay. If you don’t have a support system, you always have an alternative to turn to professional help. As part of taking care of yourself and your mother, journaling your thoughts and feelings, talking to friends, and importantly taking help from a professional so you don’t keep functioning on autopilot mode can be helpful.