Diary entry 5/11/26
Diary entry 5/11/26
Today I woke up and finished carving my linocuts for the honors project. Then I printed them. They are drying now and I will paint them tomorrow. I also painted half of my final assignment.
Unfortunately during all this I had a dissociative episode of pacing until my muscles became sore. But I don't think I tore anything this time.
Since I had the episode I couldn't go on a walk so I sat in my back yard with the dogs and read "Dear America: I walk in Dread". Which is today's doodle
Working on a creative project while managing mental health presents unique challenges and opportunities for personal growth. In my experience, carving linocuts for an honors project requires not only focus and skill but also patience as the drying and painting stages demand time. During days when a dissociative episode occurs, like pacing until muscles become sore, it can be difficult to maintain momentum on artistic tasks. However, allowing myself time to rest and avoid additional physical strain has been crucial to recovery. Rather than pushing through the episode, I found that switching to a quieter activity—such as reading "Dear America: I Walk in Dread" while sitting in the backyard with my dogs—helped me recharge mentally and emotionally. Pets can provide comfort and a sense of grounding during tough moments, which is something I highly recommend for anyone facing similar challenges. Balancing mental health issues with creative deadlines means adapting plans and practicing self-compassion. For example, although I couldn’t take my usual walk due to pacing-induced soreness, I still found ways to stay connected with my interests and environment. Documenting such experiences in a diary not only helps track progress but also contributes to emotional processing and healing. To fellow artists coping with dissociative identity disorder or related conditions, remember that creativity can be a therapeutic outlet when approached gently. Prioritizing your wellbeing and recognizing the signs when you need to pause can preserve both your physical health and artistic passion. Integrating rest periods and alternative calming activities like reading or mindful observation can keep the creative energy flowing in a sustainable way. Ultimately, this balance between art and mental health is a dynamic process, and sharing these personal reflections offers valuable insights to others navigating similar paths. Embracing the highs and lows with kindness toward oneself fosters resilience and enriches the creative journey.
