Chapter 1: Weathering the Storms of Mental Illness

Living with a mental health condition can be likened to experiencing the weather—unpredictable and often overwhelming.

By Jason Wood

From a young age, I have been captivated by meteorology. One of my childhood favorites was "Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs." I vividly recall a school project where I portrayed a weatherman reporting live from the fictional town of Chewandswallow. This sparked my enthusiasm for storm tracking; whenever severe weather loomed, I was always prepared to report on it. During winter, I would suit up in my snow gear to cover a blizzard, while in summer, I created hurricane and tornado maps to track storms from home.

As I earned my driver's license, I began to pursue storms more actively. There was an exhilarating sense of freedom in driving through remote areas, witnessing the raw power of nature firsthand. Initially, I brought friends along, but their constant requests for breaks or their panic during storms led me to chase solo. Those moments on the open road became my personal retreat, allowing me to connect with nature, listen to music, and simply be.

However, as time passed, my ability to chase storms became limited. Relocating across the country with Matt, combined with the unpredictable nature of weather patterns and the demands of a full-time job, made it challenging to pursue my passion. Yet, my fascination remained. I frequently watched The Weather Channel, streamed live chasers, and indulged in countless weather documentaries. YouTube even allowed me to revisit past storm coverage!

Now that I’m in Colorado, I have the opportunity to chase storms again. Matt often questions my desire to do so, voicing his concerns for my safety. Why would I choose to put myself in potentially hazardous situations?

This question prompted deep reflection. In my quest for understanding, I've found a profound connection between my struggles with mental illness and my love for storm chasing. Let me explain…

Anxiety and OCD indicate that my amygdala is in overdrive. I don’t need to be a neuroscientist to recognize that my mind is almost perpetually in a state of fight-or-flight. My mental health often convinces me that disaster is imminent.

I find myself anxious over trivial matters—how my curtains hang, what to have for dinner, or even preparing for tomorrow's tasks. My constant need for control in every aspect of my life is an attempt to stave off potential disasters. Living with mental illness can be mentally draining; my amygdala seems unrelenting. While medication and therapy provide some relief, storm chasing has also become a vital component of my healing journey.

You might be wondering how someone grappling with anxiety and OCD finds solace in chasing tornadoes. The answer is yes, I do!

Storm chasing necessitates meticulous planning. I invest days in advance studying meteorological models, listening to forecasts, and plotting my target area. This process of strategizing stimulates my mind and redirects my obsessive tendencies toward constructive endeavors, allowing me to transform a challenge into a strength.

Moreover, engaging with the weather teaches me acceptance of what I cannot control. It’s one of the rare occasions where I can relinquish control and focus solely on aspects I can manage, like my travel routes and strategies. It’s a thrilling experience that pushes me out of my comfort zone—something I eagerly welcome due to my love for meteorological phenomena!

In those moments spent alone with the radio and nature, I find respite from the daily pressures of life and work. While meditation, yoga, and bubble baths may work for some, my preferred form of mindfulness is storm chasing. After all, when a tornado can strike at any moment, the need to stay present becomes paramount; there’s no room for dwelling on the past or fretting about the future.

Living with a mental health condition mirrors the unpredictability of weather patterns. There are sunny days and there are tempestuous ones. We should embrace both the clear skies and the storms because they shape our identity. My passion for storm chasing has revealed the beauty in turbulent times; it has shown me that even when faced with uncontrollable circumstances, I can endure and create unforgettable experiences outside of my comfort zone.

I recognize the dangers associated with storm chasing, yet my mind is already adept at identifying potential threats. When I am out in the field observing a severe storm, it feels as though I am defying my mental illness—asserting that I refuse to remain confined within the realm of fear it attempts to impose upon me.

The first video, "Chasing Freedom is a Scam," explores the concept of freedom within the context of entrepreneurial pursuits and the slow living movement, prompting viewers to rethink their understanding of freedom.

The second video, "Chasing Freedom: The Life Journeys of Harriet… by Nikki Grimes," provides an audiobook preview that delves into the life experiences of Harriet, offering insights into resilience and personal growth.

To further explore these themes, consider reading more from The Good Men Project on Medium.

Create Your Own Support System

Life's disparities in resources don't define how we appreciate the present moment.

How to Stop Rushing

Taking a moment to pause won't lead to chaos; find confidence in stillness.

Become a Medium subscriber through our referral link to support The Good Men Project and access a wealth of content from various authors.

This story was previously published on orthorexiabites.com and The Good Men Project.

About Jason Wood

Jason, a Chicago native, now resides in Denver with his husband and their dogs, Arnie and Walter. He is committed to transforming his struggles into a source of inspiration after overcoming challenges related to an eating disorder and mental health issues.