Holding On When It Hurts, The Message of Hope.
“No matter how heavy the pain, there is still hope. You are not alone.”
In today’s Kenya, life feels like a daily fight for survival. The economy is strained, jobs are hard to come by the cost of living keeps rising, and unrest brews in the streets. But beyond the statistics and politics are real people—you. A person who may be hurting more deeply than anyone around you knows.
If you are:
- Struggling to find or keep a job,
- Watching bills pile up while money runs out,
- Battling the weight of depression or anxiety,
- Grieving a loved one you’ve lost,
- Nursing heartbreak or betrayal,
- Dealing with family pressure or loneliness,
- Or simply wondering if you still matter…
This message is for you.
It’s Okay to Not Be Okay.
Let’s start with this truth: What you feel is valid.
Whether you’re crying over someone you lost, lying awake in fear about tomorrow, or numbing yourself just to survive—your pain is real. And it deserves compassion, not shame.
In Kenya’s current environment, more people are silently battling:
- Grief: Losing a parent, sibling, spouse, or friend in tragic and unexpected ways.
- Heartbreak: Broken relationships that leave emotional wounds and questions about your worth.
- Financial Pressure: Debts, responsibilities, and expectations that feel impossible to meet.
- Mental Distress: Panic attacks, burnout, emotional numbness, or thoughts of ending it all.
You may have even told yourself: “I should be strong,” or “Others have it worse.” But comparing pain won’t make yours smaller. You are allowed to feel it.
You Are Not Alone.
Even if you feel invisible right now, please believe this: you are not alone. Many others are walking through silent storms like yours.
More importantly, you are seen—by God, by the people who care for you (even if they’re quiet), and by professionals and support systems that exist to walk with you through the darkness.
To the Grieving…
Losing someone you love changes everything. The silence they leave behind can be deafening. You may feel angry, numb, confused, or broken. Let your grief come as it needs—don’t rush it.
Cry if you must. Talk about them. Write them letters. Keep their memory alive in a way that heals you.
“Grief is just love with nowhere to go.”
To the Heartbroken…
If someone betrayed you, walked away, or crushed your spirit—you may feel like love is dangerous. You may question your worth. But here’s a truth: the end of that relationship is not the end of your story.
One broken heart doesn’t mean you are broken beyond repair. This pain is real—but it will pass.
You are still worthy of love. You are still enough.
To the Mentally and Emotionally Tired…
If your mind feels heavy all the time, if anxiety has robbed your peace, if depression has stolen your joy—you are not weak. You are not crazy. You are unwell. And like any illness, your mind needs care.
Please reach out. A conversation with a counsellor, support group, or friend could save your life.
To the Struggling and Stressed…
Economic hardship is more than just a lack of money—it’s a trigger for hopelessness, shame, and despair. If you’re doing all you can but still not making it, please know that your struggle is not a reflection of your value.
This season will not last forever. Ask for help. Take small steps. Rest when you must. There is no shame in starting over—or starting small.
When You’re at the Edge.
If you’re thinking of giving up, I beg you: Pause. Just for today, choose to stay. Choose to breathe. Choose to ask for help.
You may feel that no one cares. But I do. Many others do. And most of all—your life matters.
Gentle Ways to Begin Healing.
Here are small but powerful things you can do to care for your soul in the middle of your pain:
1. Talk to Someone.
Whether a friend, a therapist, or a pastor—don’t isolate. Let someone walk with you.
2. Write It Out.
Journal your emotions daily. Even a few lines can bring surprising clarity.
3. Find Support.
There are mental health helplines in Kenya that are confidential and free. (See below.)
4. Move Your Body.
Even a 10-minute walk outside helps relieve mental fog and boosts mood.
5. Pray or meditate.
Whether you’re religious or spiritual, stillness brings healing.
6. Be Gentle with Yourself.
You don’t have to fix everything today. Survival itself is progress.
Places You Can Reach Out For Support.
- Befrienders Kenya – Free emotional support
+254 722 178 177
befrienderskenya@gmail.com - Mental 360 – Youth mental health support
@mental360 on Instagram - Chiromo Hospital Group – Professional psychological services
www.chiromohospitalgroup.co.ke - Amani Counselling Centre – Therapy and support
020 2450374
Final Words From the Heart.
If you are breathing, your story is still unfolding. The pain you carry today is not your full identity. There is still joy ahead. There is still healing ahead. And yes, there is still love—even if it doesn’t feel like it now.
Let me say this again: You are not alone. You are not a burden. You are not broken beyond repair.
Share this with someone who may need it. Let’s be light for each other in these dark days.
