Anxiety tiptoed into my life in my early twenties, just as I was studying photography at Bradford University. The spectre of OCD loomed, casting long shadows over a time that should have been about learning and exploration.
As my condition progressed, even simple tasks became daunting—like ensuring doors were shut or the gas was off. Sometimes, this invisible weight held me captive in my flat, causing me to miss valuable university days.
Fumbling with the Focus
From a young age, photography was a part of my life. Both my dad and grandad were keen photographers, and I even earned my scout photography badge as a lad. But as anxiety wove its threads tighter around my life, photography shifted from a hobby to a lifeline.
Seeing Through the Lens
There is a serenity in nature that eludes me in my everyday life. The chaos of the world, the ceaseless bombardment of media, fades away when I’m outdoors.
When I lift the camera to my eye and peer through the viewfinder, my focus narrows to the world within the frame. In these moments, I feel free. My problems float away on the breeze, and my mind stills to the fluttering wings of the birds I love to photograph.
Snapping the Shutter, Quieting the Mind
The act of photographing wildlife, particularly birds, infuses me with a sense of well-being. Each day in nature is an opportunity to learn more, care deeper, and broaden my perspective. But wildlife photography can be very unpredictable.
Frustration can sometimes creep in when the perfect shot eludes my lens. In those moments, I tuck the camera away and simply watch, letting the sights and sounds of nature soothe my ruffled nerves.
Negatives and Positives
Sharing my work and experiences online has been a double-edged sword. I’ve encountered wonderful, supportive individuals, but also a surprising level of toxicity.
Recently, I’ve been stepping back from social media and focusing more on blogging, where I feel I can express myself honestly, without the added stress.
The Frame of Mind
Mental health is a topic many shy away from. Through my blog, I hope to shine a light on the subject, letting others who may be suffering know they are not alone.
I want to turn the negatives of my experience into positives and offer a helping hand to those who might be stumbling down the same path I once did.
Take a Shot
My advice for those grappling with anxiety and considering photography? Embrace it.
Dive headfirst into the world of apertures and f-stops, of early morning light and dew-dappled landscapes. Nature offers an incomparable peace, and photography has a singular focus.
Together, they provide a sanctuary from the stresses of life. And remember, you’re not alone.
If you ever want to talk, my door – or rather, my email inbox – is always open.
Remember, it’s okay to talk about mental health. More importantly, it’s okay to seek help. This blog is just one bloke’s journey through anxiety, apertures, and a whole lot of birds.
I hope it offers a little comfort, a little inspiration, and a whole lot of proof that things can get better, even if they don’t seem like it right now.
