I’m in a bit of an “artist intermission” full of anxiety, and the familiar depression that I’ve battled for many years. Nope, not a glamorous star here bringing awareness to those of us who live with depression and anxiety. And, I don’t have the resources to completely “take time off” to check in to a place of wellness to work on myself. Although I’m happy for those creatives who can work on their own wellness with time off and a dedicated (even inspirational) place to do it.
For me, I’m still here – in my home studio which has sat empty and alone for the past several weeks, just waiting for me to come back. I’ll admit that I’m acutely struggling right now.
Meanwhile, some of you have asked what I do with myself?
Well, I sleep a lot. I’ve worked on office chores such as household budgeting and financial actuals. I sit in my green leather studio chair and pet studio cat Stan. I managed to finally update my website with snapshots from my Arctic Circle Expedition. I take pills and go to talk therapy. I attempt to help myself with hard-to-crack wellness workbooks. And, I generally try to get back into things I’ve enjoyed in days gone by like gardening… one weed pulled at a time.
I miss painting my abstracts… I really do. Hopefully a new and inspirational project will come along for me soon. In the meantime, I’ll just try to tread water.
And a big thank-you to my husband, Steve, who through it all, helps and loves me lots.
David Castle Art 
David, I know there is nothing I can say, other I’ve experienced this. Particularly after a sustained very intense project. Like you, its liw grade so am able to shift to the mundane administrative tasks. But hate being completely stuck creatively. Hope it gets better soon. Sandra
Thanks for your thoughts and encouragement Sandra!
Having once lived with someone who suffered from anxiety and depression, I feel for you. You might try checking out the writings of Parker J Palmer, who writes eloquently about depression and just getting through it without feeling one should ‘snap out of it’, that it’s a process in other words.
Hi Michael – thanks for your comment… I’ll try checking Palmer out!
Hello David – I am a first time visitor. I enjoyed reading through some of your blog and I am wondering if you are still in a slump? I hope you have found a way forward. I live with chronic lower back pain and its exacerbated by walking standing – it has been seriously worse this past. week Hope the doctor can help tomorrow. Other than that lifespan’s a tea party !!
Hi Aine – So glad you visited my blog! I’m still working through things, but have recently finished some new “elementals” paintings which I hope will be my way forward in this new year. Hope you find some relief from your back pain!