Writing as therapy


This post from FA got me thinking (bad move: I should be WRITING, at least till my fingers bleed).
I started keeping a diary about ten years ago when I was cracking up mentally. I got better, decided to do a degree, got into writing because it was a good way of working AND taking care of my son. Cracked up again and entered therapy. Currently in good mental health, thanking you, and starting a course in counselling at my alma mater, Birkbeck, this October.

My point is, following on from FA's post, that writing (and particularly re-reading older writing) can be very illuminating as to one's state of mind at the time. I think it also shows how change is always possible. In scripts as in life.

Comments

Near by said…
Cor blimey El - all coming out now.

Sob sob.

Glad to see that sanity prevails - and (surprisingly) my post caused a ripple...

Cheers
Elinor said…
I know dear! The floodgates are opening...

Where will it all end?
potdoll said…
ooh, which sort of counselling are you doing Elinor?

glad you are in good shape nowadays.
Elinor said…
Thanks Pots, it's an introductory course. Required reading is a book called 'Counselling For Toads' in which Mr Toad is depressed and is counselled! Very funny and insightful.
Elinor said…
He bounces back!
Near by said…
what - after you kiss him?
Elinor said…
Yes FA, that's how powerful my kisses are, I'll have you know...
Unknown said…
Ach, you poor thing. I'm glad (as Pots said) that you're in good shape now. Good luck with the course at Birkbeck.
Near by said…
I've only ever liked kissing toads...


;)
Elinor said…
Er...thanks for sharing FA!

Thanks Helen. I come from a long line of barking-mad women so a certain amount of ahem, instability is expected.
Elaine said…
I always thought you were amazingly sane- or does that reflect badly on my usual state of mind? wah!
Elinor said…
No dear, it's all about me...*cackle*
Dave said…
Best of luck with the course Elinor.

I studied counselling a few years back (We read Counselling for Toads too!) and found it really useful. We studied Rogerian Therapy which is all about "helping people to help themselves" but just as useful is that it gives you the skills to recognise and deal with your own feelings.

I think you're right about writing being a reflection of your mental state at the time. My first script was definitely an act of catharsis.
Elinor said…
Hi Dave and thanks for your good wishes.

Yes, I'm doing the counselling for fresh insight into my own motivations as well as counselling others. I like the sound of Rogerian theory.

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