Writing and Depression

Photo courtesy of Kristin Nador 




I've not talked much publicly about my post-book depression but I feel I may need to now. THE RANCHER released a month ago today and I'm still feeling a bit blue. So much so, I may need to shift release dates.



For as long as I can remember, I've always gotten a little depressed after releasing a book. I'm not sure why that is. It could be as simple as "empty nest syndrome" or something similar.  I know authors who can write full novels in two weeks time. I'm not one of those authors and it takes me months to write a book and when I'm writing, I'm immersed into that world to the point it's really all I think about. Even when I'm not writing, ideas and scenes are flitting through my mind and once a book is done--once its sent out into the world--I feel a bit lost.



It could also be the fact I spend months at a time alone in my office, isolated from most everyone for 8 or more hours a day. The lack of exercise, a poor diet and decreased exposure to sunlight may have its place in the large scheme of things as well. Whatever the reason, I can't seem to shake this funk I've been in.



The book is selling well. The entire Willow Creek Series has exceeded my wildest dreams and I've met so many new readers who have found me because of these books. I honestly couldn't ask for more. As well as everything has been going, it still isn't enough to drag me out of my current mood. Nothing I've done seems to work.



I took a few days and spent them outside with my husband, hoping the fresh air and sunshine would work but…nothing.



I've vegged out in front of the TV, watching more television in the last two weeks than I've seen in the past year and….nothing.



I bought new sewing material to make a new 'southern belle' dress, cut out the pattern and sewed half of it, then….nothing.



I spent days on Facebook chatting with readers only to slink away again. I've all but avoided Twitter like the plague.



It's a viscous cycle. Up one minute, down the rest of the day. I can break it. I have many times before but for some reason, this time, it's harder.



I'll be participating in a living history event this weekend, camping in a tent, cooking over an open fire and talking with strangers. I'll be heading to Charleston SC the following weekend so I'm hoping two weekends away with no worries will be enough. If not, I'll be in trouble. I have His Brother's Wife half-way finished, the Wicked Anthology to finish formatting and get released and a brand new Willow Creek Novel just chomping at the bit to be written, not to mention, a whole cast of super-natural creatures whispering and trying to lure me back to the dark side. I've too much to do to be so out of it.



Hopefully it'll pass soon. Keep your fingers crossed. I've run out of lucky charms so throw good vibes my way!












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