My (F25) life is very difficult right now, and I feel completely stuck.
My parents want me to marry someone I don’t like. They chose this person for me, but I have feelings for someone else. In my society (South Asian) people are expected to marry within their caste, and my parents are very concerned about what others will say. But I just wish they would listen to me and try to understand how I feel.
Growing up wasn’t easy. My parents were always focused on my siblings, and I often felt ignored. Even now, they make major decisions about my life especially marriage without even asking for my opinion. They asked my brothers what they think, but no one asked me, as if what I want doesn’t matter.
I work as a teacher and earn a decent salary, but my father takes most of my income. I’m left with very little. I want to be independent, take care of myself, and make my own choices but I feel like I’m not allowed to.
On top of that, I’ve struggled with depression, panic attacks, and insomnia for most of my life. I also have a history of childhood sexual assault, which has deeply affected my mental and emotional well-being. I’ve carried this pain silently for years, and it still impacts how I see myself and my relationships.
Everything feels overwhelming. I’m mentally and emotionally exhausted. I just want to be heard and understood. I really need advice on how to talk to my parents so they can see things from my perspective and allow me to make my own decisions.
Comments
I’m so sorry, OP! The whole situation is really unfair. You clearly have deep and hurtful traumas, you need to take care of yourself. Can you go to therapy?
Can’t you explain you don’t want to be forced into a marriage with someone you don’t have feelings for? Can’t you keep your own money? The whole situation seems absurd.
Would it be possible for you to leave your family house and live by yourself?
Do you have friends or any other support system aside your family?
I heard similar cases of women that escaped the pressure because they lived abroad.
Maybe a neighbouring country can have more welcoming mentality regarding women’s rights.
Do not marry someone you don’t love! It’s not fair that your father takes your income, whether it’s culture or just to help out your family. You need to take care of yourself first. I hope you go to therapy and heal from trauma.