Salaam Auntie,
I am a 20-year-old university student and the youngest in my family. I have always been focused on my studies and tried to stay positive. However, since my siblings’ marriages, our family life has become very stressful, due to constant conflicts and serious marital issues.
The ongoing arguments, negativity and emotional tension at home have taken a toll on me. Along with academic pressure, I now struggle with irritation, loneliness and lack of peace. My parents are deeply involved in my siblings’ problems and are unable to provide emotional support.
Seeing my friends speak proudly about their siblings makes me feel even more demoralised. I try to stay strong, but it has become difficult to concentrate on my studies in this environment. I would appreciate your guidance on how to cope and protect my mental well-being.
Disturbed Girl
‘Emotional Tension At Home Is Draining Me’
Dear Disturbed Girl,
When a home becomes tense because of siblings’ marital problems, it affects everyone. And since you are the youngest in the house, you are probably absorbing the stress. Your parents are preoccupied elsewhere, which is also increasing your loneliness.
Please remember that this situation is not yours to fix. Your responsibility right now is to protect your well-being and work towards your future. Try to stay away from the tension by spending more time studying in a space like the university library or even a friend’s home.
It’s also natural to feel hurt when you compare your family to others. Remember that every family has its own struggles, even if they aren’t obvious. Just go easy on yourself.
At home, you should try and step away from arguments. Use headphones or just go to another room. Try to build a daily routine in which you have fixed study hours, some form of exercise and anything else that you want to incorporate. These small habits will help give you a sense of control in your environment.
It’s also natural to feel hurt when you compare your family to others. Remember that every family has its own struggles, even if they aren’t obvious. Just go easy on yourself.
Most importantly, don’t go through this alone. Stay connected to a person you trust and if your university offers counselling, consider using it. Asking for support is a strength. This phase will pass, even if it doesn’t feel like it right now.
Finally, keep reminding yourself that this difficult phase of your life will not last forever. Focus on your education and on keeping yourself emotionally stable. Follow your daily routine and make the effort to protect your peace.
Disclaimer: If you or someone you know is in crisis and/or feeling suicidal, please go to your nearest emergency room and seek medical help immediately.
Auntie will not reply privately to any query.
Please send concise queries to: auntieagni@gmail.com
Published in Dawn, EOS, January 18th, 2026
