take their stories from head to paper,
working at their own pace and time.
Post creation Depression
Post creation depression is the feeling of exhaustion most times accompanied by moodiness that is a result of the void created by completing a project — often experienced by authors, artists and film producers.
As some of you may know, my first children’s storybook was published a few weeks ago. As you might have imagined, I was pleased about this. It had taken years before I finally had the guts to make my story out of a mere manuscript to a real book that is now published.
Like any other project, this took a lot of my time. Reading, editing, formatting, getting the right Illustrator, and working with my Illustrator to bring out the best pictures for the book. Then, came submission time and rejection by Amazon for not getting it right several times, until finally, it got accepted for publishing!
The general feeling was joy, confidence, and great satisfaction. However, I sometimes struggle with the sadness of the void of completion. And the exhaustion that comes along with it. Also, the fear of the unknown, like how would people respond to my new book? I now have no deadlines; the fundamental question is, what next? I find myself gazing into thin air, trying to make sense of everything around me.
Interestingly, I never realized that this sort of feeling is common and even has a name, Post-Creation-Blues. Everyone deals with this differently, so, please, my suggestions are based on my own experience. Get professional help if you feel terrible.
How To Cope With Post Creation Depression
- Eat well. Study shows that foods rich in omega-three fatty acids helps prevent depression and improves the symptoms for those already depressed. There are three types of omega-three fatty acids; the alpha-linolenic acid popularly abbreviated ALA. The EPA, eicosapentaenoic acid. The DHA, docosahexaenoic acid. Of the three, the EPA is said to be the best for curbing depression. They include all seafood, especially oily fish like salmon, mackerel, sardines. Other sources include chia seed, flaxseed, soybean oil, seaweed. Include these as part of a healthy diet.
- Exercise. Studies into the benefits of regular exercise show the release of the 'happy' hormone, endorphins, which improves positivity and reduces the chance of depression. So if you are struggling after a project, go to the gym or take walks around your neighborhood. I prefer walking as it exposes you to sunlight, which also improves your mood.
- Rest well. We all get depressed at times. Sleeping the recommended 8hours a day can help you feel happier, boost your energy, and contributes to positivity. Maintain a healthy sleep routine and take out anything, including your device that could obstruct your sleep.
- Always plan. I have been through many projects, and from experience, I start planning my next project before the end of the present one. Always ensure that the end of one project is the start of another after a brief break, of course.
- Celebrate your success with family and friends to give you that added boost. When you are enjoying the company of loved ones, you get an emotional lift and feel less concern about what happens next in your life. You soak up the joy and love around you.
- Never allow the negative comments of others to break you. The worth of your ProjectProject does not depend on what others place on it. Only you can place a price on it. If you have put in 100 percent, pat yourself on the back and be proud of your achievement.
- Fill any void created by the completion of your project by giving your time, energy, and resources to help others. An ancient but reliable proverb says, "there is more happiness in giving than there is in receiving."
- Take a break if you can. It does not have to be something elaborate. The saying "the best things in life are free," the New York Times says Coco Channel coined it, and it may apply here. Driving through some scenic views like the Icefields Parkway may be just what you need.
- Start your next project as soon as possible.
These suggestions are for infomational purpose only. If you are going through severe depression please get professional help. It is nothing to be embarrased about and for most people, help is just a phone call away. If you live in Alberta check this page. There is always a local agency in your region. If you cannot find one in your region, email us at info@ngoziedema.com . Do not forget to signup for our newsletter.
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