One of the workshops I attended at the WCCW 2023 conference was called Chronically Creative: Balancing Writing with Mental Illness, taught by Chris Morris. Out of all the wonderful speakers I think I got the most out of his workshop. The number one takeaway for me was, my depression is not a sin that needs forgiving.

So many times my depression has caused me to feel guilt or shame and I understand the confusion since sin causes the same reaction. But depression, anxiety, or any other mental illness is not a choice we make, and God is thoroughly aware of our condition. Chris used the following verses:

O Lord, you have examined my heart and know everything about me.

You go before me and follow me. You place your hand of blessing on my head.

Psalms‬ ‭139‬:‭1‬, ‭5‬ ‭NLT

He also taught me about two responses that we may lean toward, grace vs. perseverance. I tend to lean toward grace. That looks like, “ It’s cloudy outside so I think I’ll put off writing until tomorrow.” My friend who was with me says she leans toward perseverance, where she gets things done, but she doesn’t enjoy it.

Chris’s suggestion was to give ourself lots of tools for when the ideas come, like using our phone’s note app. He said to bring more perseverance into the equation for those of us who lean toward grace and vice versa.

Rather than excuses or seeking forgiveness, we were encouraged to give ourselves permission. Permission to be ourselves. Permission to seek help. Permission to be our own advocate. And if we need medication, not to give up until we find the one that works. I like what he said, “Your magic is deeper than medication.”

I have been fortunate to find herbal supplements that help me manage my depression without side-effects. I still have days that hit me hard, and have availed myself of God’s grace. Now it’s time to access His strength to persevere, even on a hard day.

I have a goal to finish my edits on my novel, A Place for Me, during NaNoWriMo (this November). My main character, Taylyn, has symptoms of depression and anxiety, with some PTSD. I’m asking for prayers to persevere and put my butt in the chair and write with joy.

One more note. Besides God and herbs, I have community. God has answers for you, and I’m sure community will factor in to your care plan.

Grace & Peace,

Sandy

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