“When The Storm Hits”

Written By Isaak Rowe

Mental health isn’t just a buzzword. It’s our foundation—one that many of us don’t realize is cracking until we’re already knee-deep in the chaos. Some days, it feels like a quiet fog. Other days, it’s a storm that pulls you under, convincing you there’s no way out. I’ve lived both. And if you’re reading this, chances are—you have too.

We all face moments when negative emotions feel overwhelming. When sadness morphs into hopelessness. When frustration spirals into rage. When loneliness convinces us we don’t matter. But here’s the truth: feelings are not facts. They are visitors—not permanent residents.

So how do we combat those heavy, suffocating waves of emotion?

Here are a few tools and truths that have helped me hold steady in the storm:

1. Name It to Tame It

It sounds simple, but it’s powerful: call the feeling out. Is it fear? Shame? Hopelessness? Instead of saying “I feel awful,” try “I’m feeling overwhelmed by ___.” Naming your emotion separates you from it. You are not your sadness. You’re the one observing it—and that means you have the power to move through it.

2. Move Your Body, Move the Emotion

When negative feelings take root, they often stay trapped in our bodies. Movement—any kind of movement—can help release the tension. Walk. Stretch. Dance alone in your room. Go for a drive with the windows down. Emotions are energy, and energy needs somewhere to go.

3. Disrupt the Thought Loop

Strong emotions often come with looping thoughts that only intensify them. Try interrupting that loop by:

  • Calling a friend and talking about something else.

  • Journaling for 5 minutes without stopping, even if it’s just “I don’t know what to say.”

  • Playing music that shifts your mood (I mean really blare it).

  • Watching a video that makes you laugh or cry—whatever you need to feel again.

4. Anchor in Reality

Negative thoughts lie. They’ll tell you no one cares. That nothing will get better. That you're failing.
Ask yourself:

  • What is the actual evidence of this thought?

  • What would I say to a friend feeling this way?

  • What has helped me in the past, even just a little?

Remind yourself: you’ve survived 100% of your darkest days so far. That’s not weakness. That’s proof of strength.

5. Breathe Like It Matters—Because It Does

Breathing is underrated. Deep breathing resets your nervous system and tells your body: You’re safe. Try this:

  • Inhale for 4 seconds

  • Hold for 4 seconds

  • Exhale for 6 seconds

  • Repeat 5 times.

It may feel small, but it’s a signal to your body that the danger is passing.

6. Allow Yourself to Rest Without Shame

Sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is say, “I need a break.” Not every day is for conquering. Some days are for surviving. And that’s okay. Give yourself grace. Let your bed hold you. Let silence comfort you. Let the world spin without you for a while—then rejoin it when you're ready.

7. Speak Kindly to Yourself (Even If You Don’t Believe It Yet)

When you're hurting, your inner dialogue matters more than ever. You don’t need to fake positivity—you need to speak truth. Try telling yourself:

  • “This feeling is temporary.”

  • “I’m allowed to be human.”

  • “I’ve felt this way before and made it through.”

  • “I am worthy of help, healing, and hope.”

Even if it doesn’t feel true today—say it anyway. Your soul is listening.

Remember This:

Strong emotions are not a sign of weakness. They’re signs of aliveness.
They mean you care. They mean you feel. They mean you're human.
But they don't get to define you.

You are not your anger.
You are not your fear.
You are not your shame.

You are the person standing in the storm—and you are learning to dance in the rain.

If you’re struggling, you’re not alone.
Talk to someone. Reach out. You deserve love, help, and healing—no matter what your mind is telling you.

Mental health isn’t a destination. It’s a daily practice.
And today, showing up to read this…
That’s a victory already.

Isaak Rowe
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“Jenga”