Strength in the Midst of a Storm; What Does That Really Mean?

Life isn’t always rainbows and blue skies, as we imagine it should be. On the contrary, sometimes unexpected storms or situations come and throw us completely off balance. Too often these world-winds do not look good or feel pleasant, and most times feel unbearable while creating emotional, physical, and psychological distress. 

These seasons of life can feel heavy, uncertain, and even painful. Distressing situations may come in the form of grief, anxiety, relationship breakups, health concerns, trauma, or simply feeling lost or hopeless. Let’s admit it, life does not come with an outline of instruction on getting from one phase to another. It can be difficult or challenging to sometimes find strength to manage or cope during these difficult times. Strength is sometimes misinterpreted as having the ability to manage multiple tasks at once, or being physically fit to maneuver and complete what needs to be done. However, when life happens or throws a curve ball into our sense of normalcy, having a six inch abdominal area, running a marathon, or being able to bench press 300lbs, does not really matter. Tapping into our inner cognitive and emotional abilities, may be the determining factors as to whether we have the inner strength to press on or cave in. 

The Psychological Toll of Emotional Storms

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), nearly 1 in 5 U.S. adults live with a mental illness, and over30% report experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression in any given year. This data is based on individuals navigating storms both seen and unseen. 

The psychological effects of trauma can be long-term, and debilitating.  Studies show that about 6% of the U.S. population will develop PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) at some point in their lives, with higher prevalence among individuals exposed to violence, abuse, or major life disruptions.  

The emotional toll is real, but so is the possibility of healing.  We often carry an image of strength that looks like unshakable positivity or perfect control; however, real resilience is messier than that. It's crying and still getting out of bed the next day. It’s reaching out for support instead of shutting down. Strength is not the absence of pain—it’s the willingness to feel it and keep moving.

Some Ways to Cope

Here are some helpful strategies based on empirical data that has helped many people manage psychological and emotional distress:

1. Mindful Breathing - When overwhelmed, slow your breath. Inhale for 4 counts, hold for 4, exhale for 6. It can calm your nervous system in moments of stress.

2. Mindfulness (Ground yourself) - Try the 5-4-3-2-1 method: Name 5 things you see, 4 you can touch, 3 you hear, 2 you smell, 1 you taste. This helps bring your mind back to the present.

3. Psychotherapy (Talk it out) -  Whether it’s with a friend, a counselor, or a support group, speaking your truth out loud helps reduce emotional pressure and provides perspective.

Storms can feel endless when you're in them; but they do pass. And often, they reveal strength you didn’t know you had. If you are not feeling strong today—remember you showed up, reading this, and looking for hope? That’s strength!

Remember you don't have to do this alone. There is trustworthy support available, when needed.