Pakistani actress Saheefa Jabbar Khattak, known for her candidness about her mental health journey, has once again shared a poignant message on Instagram. Her recent post delves into her ongoing struggles and the significant impact it has had on her and her loved ones, particularly her father.
In her heartfelt post, Khattak expressed, “No father should witness his child in pain. I yearn for my own well-being so that my father can finally stop worrying. It’s not just about my ability to cope anymore; it’s about sparing my father from this agony. Oh Allah, You are the Most Merciful and Compassionate. Either grant me the strength to endure this pain or take it away permanently. You know what is best for me and the trials I must face. I entrust this to You. Please ease my family’s burden.”
This touching message comes after a series of posts where Khattak has been transparent about her mental health issues, discussing the obstacles and societal stigma she faces.
In an earlier post, she reflected, “Fulfillment feels elusive, but words have power. The right words at the right moment. I feel a void in my heart, drained by recurring pain and panic, numbness, and fear.”
She continued, “I am ashamed of my condition, why? Because it makes me feel superficial despite my privileges and support system. It’s relentless, and I often ask Khawaja Saab, ‘Why am I like this?’ His response is always reassuring: ‘You are perfect as you are. Some lows do not define who you are.’”
Khattak has also been open about her use of prescribed antidepressants and the complexities of managing her mental health.
She shared, “Taking prescribed antidepressants has been a mixed experience. Initially, I felt numb—not happy or sad, just devoid of feelings. Gradually, I reduced the dosage to see if I had healed, but the change was stark. The previous numbness began to feel comforting. Now, I feel the return of pain, fear, and anxiety. It scares me a little. But it’s okay; I’ll get through this as well.”
Khattak’s honesty about her mental health struggles continues to resonate with many, offering a glimpse into the challenging and often stigmatized journey of managing mental illness.
