An interesting question came up in the r/writing subreddit. “Question to all writers: How did writing affect your mental health?”
I hadn’t really thought about my mental health during the process of writing a book. But of course, mental health would be affected. After pondering this, I realized it helped, and it hurt.
The first book was cathartic because when I was done, I realized I had put far too much of myself into my character. And that made me examine a lot about my life. Understanding is always a good thing.
But it’s not just about the writing. The entire process affects me in unexpected ways.
I have a naturally nervous disposition, and writing calms me, as does painting or anything that completely engages the mind. That’s the good part.
From the moment I start thinking about a story, no other worries invade my thoughts. Writing is like opening a box of chocolates and wondering which one I’ll have today. Which part of the storyline is speaking to me at that moment? Letting my imagination run riot is like Christmas, and I’m opening one package after another. Ideas careen around unchecked. The actual writing is a challenge I love.
EUPHORIA.
Things start to get tense and nervous jitters begin during the editing, and the tension ramps up after publication. Editing and using Grammarly makes me doubt my writing skills and trust that this machine editor is right and I am wrong.
DOUBT.
Dealing with post-publication completely rains on the parade. I find myself in a state of anxiety and self-doubt, judging myself by the number of sales and reads (or lack of). It feels like I am at work, waiting for a performance review. And I feel like I should have the metrics to judge my success or failure. The worst feeling.
JUDGEMENT.
My next book will be different. I’m reminding myself that I’m in this for the love of it. Some may like it, and some may not. More readers would be wonderful. Sales would be great, but lacking that doesn’t mean it’s not a good book. I’ll keep at it.
DEE HARPER LEWIS 