I Battle Depression

I have been sick most of this week, and as I'm recovering, I'm realizing that my creative drive is dead. Creating illustrations was one of my escapes. I've always enjoyed making art, because it has made me feel as if I had some kind of control in my life. I had just gifted myself a new ipad a month ago to help myself create more interesting pieces. Now, my mind is a creative desert. I'm devastated. I thought I would be more motivated after my illness, but my sadness has come back to haunt me. My sadness has killed any motivation I had. I'll never be successful.

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Mamapolo2016 · F

I doubt there have been many 'creatives' (writer, artist, musician, architect, etc) who have NOT now and then lived in that desolate wasteland you describe. It's the other, bleak side of the creative coin.

There have been many methods developed to get through, over, under, or around the blockage and many succeed.

I recommend reading or listening to [i]The Artist's Way[/i] by Julia Cameron. It's available in book and audiobook form.

In addition, lighten up on the pressure you're putting yourself under. Redo things you've already done. Copy things DIFFERENT than your own style.

Good luck.

lovecatsnothumans · 31-35, F

@Mamapolo2016 Thanks.

Allelse · 36-40, M

Sometimes being an artist is like having a garden, sometimes you gotta get out, find some new shit and haul it back to your plot. Lay it on thick. You're sick, so you cant go far, maybe just stick your head out and get some fresh air, watch some people. See something new. Maybe let something new grow in your patch.

drymer · 56-60, M

I don't think it's possible to remain positive, motivated and inspired 24/7... There will always be times you'll feel "down", like there's no point in life etc... Draw inspiration from that... Once I heard that most masterpieces in art were created in particularly difficult and sad moments in the artists' lives... Sadness, oddly, can be a powerful drive of creative genius...

SatanBurger · 36-40, F

Whenever I'm depressed, I pet cats. Cats are life, cats are good. Just cats :P

Brandon101 · 26-30, M

So do I you're not alone

Peapod · 61-69, F

Have you had treatment for your depression? It's definitely something you should not endure without help. Medication and therapy can make a huge difference.

lovecatsnothumans · 31-35, F

@Peapod I don't trust people that treat the mentally ill.

Peapod · 61-69, F

@lovecatsnothumans, I well understand that since there are a lot that have no business being in the profession. It really does take good recommendations from others you trust. Once you have a good treatment team, it can be the difference between wanting to harm yourself or live a full life.

I hope you find what you need. I am also an artist and it is hard to be creative when you are really in a bad place. Sometimes a short trip out to walk around or do something different can help change your moods.

I know I suffered for a long time before I sought out help. In my case, I had a family dependent on me, so I had to do something.

Ursamajor · 46-50, F

Maybe its time to focuss on others things than yourself. Lose yourself to find yourself.

plAfulandalittleNaughty · M

Take care, good luck to you

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