Autistic Stimming essay

 Stimming is something that's very personal to me as someone with autism. It's the little movements that I make that help me feel calm and focused. Things like rocking back and forth, tapping my fingers, or making odd little noises. These little motions can make such a big difference in how I feel.

For a long time, I didn't know what stimming was or that it was a common trait among autistic people. I just thought that I was weird or that something was wrong with me. So, I tried to suppress my stimming behavior, thinking it would make me more "normal". But the truth is, suppressing my stimming was really harmful to my mental health. It was like trying to hold back a sneeze, and it only made me feel more anxious and overwhelmed.

It wasn't until I learned more about autism and stimming that I realized how important it is to accept this behavior. Stimming is a natural part of who I am, and it's something that helps me regulate my emotions and sensory input. It's a coping mechanism that helps me feel safe and in control.

It's not always easy, though. Sometimes people can be judgemental or misunderstand my stimming behavior. They might think I'm being weird or rude, when really I'm just trying to stay calm and focused. That's why it's so important to educate others about stimming and autism. When people understand why I stim, they're usually more accepting and supportive.

It's been a long journey, but I'm learning to accept and even appreciate my stimming behavior. It's a reminder that I'm different, but that's okay. In fact, it's something to celebrate. Stimming is a part of my identity as an autistic person, and it's just one of the many things that makes me who I am.

Dad Jokes with Thomas Jefferson - made with PrimeVoice AI

 

https://youtube.com/shorts/whrztwOsrGc?feature=share

The Struggles of Being an Independent Musician/Artist

 Being an independent artist sounds amazing on paper, but in reality, it can be a real struggle. Not only do you have to figure out how to make a living from your art, but you also have to build a fanbase. And let me tell you, that's not always easy.

Making a steady income is hard enough, but trying to build a fanbase on top of that? It can feel like a never-ending battle. It can be tough to get your music out there and get people to listen, especially when there's so much competition.

I know what it's like to feel like no one is paying attention to your art. It can be discouraging and make you question whether you're even doing anything right. But here's the thing, building a fanbase takes time and effort. And even the most successful artists have gone through their own struggles.

So, what can you do? Well, for starters, it helps to have a supportive community of fellow artists and fans. Collaborating with other artists and reaching out to your fans can help you get your music heard and grow your following. And even if you're feeling like you're not making any progress, remember that success is a marathon, not a sprint.

Being an independent artist is a journey, and building a fanbase can be one of the biggest challenges. But with persistence, effort, and a little bit of luck, it is possible to overcome these struggles and find success as an independent artist.

Half way through FAWM

 Hello again. I'm midway through the FAWM songwriting challenge, and I have to say, it's been a wild ride. If you're not familiar with FAWM, it's a challenge to write 14 songs in 28 days. And let me tell you, it's not for the faint of heart!

At first, I was feeling pretty intimidated. I mean, coming up with 14 songs in 28 days? That's a lot! And to make matters worse, I was struggling to be creative. But as I started writing, something magical happened. The words just started flowing, and before I knew it, I had written a few songs.

One of the best parts of the FAWM challenge is that it encourages you to experiment and be creative. I've tried new songwriting techniques, written songs in different genres, and even pushed my lyrical boundaries. It's been amazing to see what I can come up with when I let go and just let the creativity flow.

Now, I'm halfway through the challenge and I've written seven songs so far. The next seven are going to be just as challenging, but I'm ready for it. Even though it's been tough at times, I'm so grateful for this experience. It's taught me to embrace the unknown and to always keep pushing myself, even when I'm feeling stuck.

The FAWM songwriting challenge has been an amazing experience so far. It's not easy, but it's worth it. And who knows, maybe by the end of the challenge, I'll have written some of my best songs yet!

Autistic Burnout - what it is and how it feels

 Autistic burnout is a real struggle and something that affects me frustratingly often. It's hard to describe how it feels, but it's like a constant, overwhelming exhaustion that just doesn't seem to go away. I often feel physically and mentally drained, and even the simplest tasks can become impossible to complete.

One of the worst parts about experiencing autistic burnout is the embarrassment that comes along with it. I know that people don't understand what I'm going through and often see me as lazy or unmotivated. It's a frustrating feeling because I want so badly to be able to just snap out of it, but it's not that simple.

Autistic burnout is a result of sensory overload and feeling constantly overwhelmed. It's like my brain just can't keep up with the constant stimulation and it crashes. I try my best to avoid situations that trigger it, but sometimes it just sneaks up on me.

It can be really tough, but I've learned to accept that this is just a part of who I am and that it's okay to need a break. I try to make sure I take the time to recharge, whether it's through self-care or just taking a nap.

If you're experiencing autistic burnout, know that you're not alone. It's important to take care of yourself and not be too hard on yourself. Try to find things that help you relax and give you a break from the constant stimulation. And remember, it's okay to need a break. You're not weak for having this experience, you're just human.

Barnaby J. Tremayne.

I Love Coffee - video version

 

https://youtu.be/fo74aJ83Qqs

I experimented with #primevoice AI audio and FakeYou lip sync generator and ended up with an anime character telling us that they love coffee.

A Quick Guide to Surviving FAWM

 Getting started with FAWM: A Guide to the February Album Writing Month Challenge

February Album Writing Month, or FAWM, is an online community of songwriters and musicians who challenge themselves to write and record 14 new songs in the 28 days of February. Whether you're a seasoned songwriter or just starting out, FAWM is a great opportunity to stretch your creative muscles, collaborate with other musicians, and build your portfolio.

Here are some tips to help you get started with FAWM:

1. Set your goals.

Before you begin, it's important to know what you want to accomplish with FAWM. Do you want to write a certain number of songs? Do you want to experiment with a new genre? Do you want to improve your recording skills? Whatever your goals are, make sure they are specific, measurable, and achievable.

2. Start early.

FAWM can be a busy time, so it's a good idea to start planning and preparing as early as possible. Make a list of songs you want to write, gather your musical instruments and recording gear, and set up a workspace that is conducive to creativity.

3. Collaborate.

FAWM is a great opportunity to collaborate with other musicians, both online and in person. You can join the FAWM forum to find collaborators, share your songs, and receive feedback. You can also attend FAWM events and participate in songwriting challenges to get inspired and meet other musicians.

4. Be flexible.

Songwriting can be unpredictable, and it's important to be flexible and open to change. Don't be afraid to try new things, even if they're outside of your comfort zone. And if a song isn't working out, don't be afraid to move on and try something else.

5. Keep it simple.

Songwriting is about creativity, not technical proficiency. Don't get bogged down by complicated chord progressions or intricate arrangements. Instead, focus on writing a simple melody and lyrics that tell a story. You can always add more instrumentation later.

6. Stay organized.

With 14 songs to write in 28 days, it's important to stay organized. Keep a notebook or digital document with your lyrics and ideas. And when you're ready to record, make sure to label your files and backups.

7. Celebrate your achievements.

Writing and recording 14 songs in 28 days is no small feat. Take the time to celebrate your achievements and share your songs with others. You can upload your songs to the FAWM website, share them on social media, or perform them at a local open mic.

In conclusion, FAWM is a unique and rewarding challenge for songwriters and musicians of all skill levels. Whether you're looking to improve your songwriting, collaborate with others, or build your portfolio, FAWM is a great opportunity to stretch your creative muscles and have fun. So get started early, set your goals, and have fun!

Living with Imposter Syndrome

 Living with imposter syndrome is like constantly feeling like a fraud in your own skin. It's a constant nagging voice that tells you that you're not good enough, that you don't belong and that you will be exposed as a fraud. 

I remember the first time I shared my work online, I felt like I didn't belong and that my art wasn't good enough. But that feeling never really went away. It's been with me through every new project, every performance, and every time someone compliments my work. 

It's not just my art, it's everything. I doubt my abilities in every aspect of my life. It's been hard, it's affected my relationships, my work, everything. I've been afraid to share my work, to take on new projects, because I was convinced I would fail. 

But you know what? I've come to realize that I'm not alone in feeling this way. A lot of people struggle with imposter syndrome. It's not something that can be cured, but it can be managed. I'm learning to be kinder to myself. I remind myself that mistakes are a part of the creative process, and that I'm not alone in feeling this way. 

I've also learned to surround myself with people who support me and believe in me. And I try to focus on my accomplishments, rather than my shortcomings. I remind myself of the times when my art has been positively received, and the times when I've overcome obstacles. It's not easy, but it's worth it.

So, if you're reading this and you feel like a fraud, just know that you're not alone. We all feel like that sometimes. But we can learn to manage it, and that's what really matters.

Why I'm a musician

 Being a musician is more than just a job or hobby for me, it's a need. It's something I just have to do, like breathing. It's how I express myself and make sense of the world.

As someone who's neurodivergent and deals with mental illness, making music is especially important. It's a way for me to take all the feelings and thoughts swirling around in my head and turn them into something real and beautiful. Playing an instrument or singing is like therapy for me, helping me cope with stress and anxiety.

But it's not just about me. Music is a powerful way to connect with others. It's a universal language that can break down barriers of race and culture. When I play a song and people connect with it, it's like we're speaking the same language. It creates this emotional bond between us and it's amazing.

Being a musician also gives me a sense of purpose and fulfillment. I get to share my talents with the world and make a difference in people's lives. Seeing someone's face light up when they hear a song that speaks to them, or watching a crowd sing along to one of my songs, it's indescribable.

Now, I'm not going to lie, it's not always easy. There's rejection and failure, but the need to make music is too strong to ignore. It's a part of me, and I can't be truly happy or fulfilled without it. Plus, making music helps me navigate the challenges of my neurodivergence and mental illness.

All in all, being a musician is more than just a job or hobby for me, it's a need. It's how I express myself, cope with life and connect with others. It gives me purpose and fulfillment and helps me navigate the challenges of my neurodivergence and mental illness.

I'm a comedian... No, seriously

 Being a stand-up comedian is not just about telling jokes on stage, it's about putting yourself out there, being vulnerable, and making people laugh. It's a unique combination of art, entertainment, and bravery. But it's also one of the most challenging and rewarding careers you can have.

For me, it all started with my first job. I was working as a server and always cracking jokes and making my co-workers laugh. One day, a friend suggested I try stand-up comedy, and I thought it would be a fun challenge. I started performing at open mic nights and quickly fell in love with the rush of being on stage. There's nothing like making a room full of strangers laugh.

But stand-up comedy is not just about getting laughs, it's also about the craft. Writing a good joke is hard work and so is writing a good set. And making it all come together on stage is even harder. It's a constant process of writing, rewriting, and refining. And even when you have a great set, you never know how it's going to go over with a live audience. That's the beauty and the fear of stand-up comedy.

It's also a career that requires a thick skin. Not every joke will land, and not every audience will be receptive. You have to be able to handle rejection and criticism. It can also be a lonely job, traveling from city to city, performing for strangers night after night. But when it all comes together, and you have a room full of people laughing and cheering, it's all worth it.

Being a stand-up comedian also taught me a lot about myself, especially when it comes to my mental health and anxiety. Being on stage and having to be funny all the time can be incredibly draining and can take a toll on your mental health. It's important to take care of yourself and be aware of the potential effects on your mental health. For me, I've learned to set boundaries for myself and take time for self-care.

In conclusion, being a stand-up comedian is not for everyone. It's a challenging and demanding career, but it's also one of the most rewarding. It's about putting yourself out there, making people laugh and learning a lot about yourself in the process. But it's also important to remember to take care of yourself and be aware of the potential effects on your mental health.

Why I use humour as a defence mechanism

 Humour has always been my go-to defence mechanism, a way to deal with tough situations and emotions. It's like a superpower that I've always had, the ability to make people laugh and lighten the mood, even in the darkest of times. 

But it wasn't until recently that I really started to understand how powerful it can be as a coping mechanism, especially when it comes to anxiety. Growing up, I struggled with anxiety and found it difficult to make friends and fit in. Humour was a way for me to connect with others and to express myself. It was a way to break the ice and to start a conversation. 

As I got older, my anxiety didn't go away, it just manifested itself in different ways. But through it all, humour was always a constant for me. It was a way to cope with the anxiety and to make sense of the world around me. 

Recently, I've been working with a therapist who specializes in anxiety and I've been learning about different coping mechanisms. But I've also come to realize that humour will always be a part of who I am and it will always be a valuable tool for me to cope with anxiety. 

Using humor as a defense mechanism is not just about telling jokes and making people laugh, but it's about using it as a tool to cope with anxiety and to make sense of life.

FAWM 2023

 Hey friends!

I just wanted to drop in and share some exciting news with you all - I'm taking on the February Album Writing Month (FAWM) challenge! For those of you who haven't heard of it, it's a songwriting challenge where participants aim to write 14 songs in the 28 days of February. I've always been up for a challenge and I think this is going to be a great opportunity to push myself as a songwriter and see what I'm capable of.

As I gear up for this adventure, I wanted to share some tips that have helped me in the past when getting ready for a songwriting challenge.

First things first, it's all about setting realistic goals for yourself. 14 songs in 28 days is no small feat, so don't put too much pressure on yourself. Instead, focus on the process of writing and creating and enjoy the ride.

Another tip that's helped me is to start gathering inspiration early. This could be watching a movie, listening to a new album, or even taking a walk in nature. The more inspiration you have, the easier it'll be to come up with new ideas and concepts for your songs.

I also like to have a solid writing routine in place. This could mean setting aside a specific time each day to work on songwriting, or having a dedicated writing space. Whatever works best for you, make sure you stick to it as much as possible.

And don't forget about the tools! Having the right tools is key to streamlining the songwriting process. This could mean having a notebook for lyrics, a recording app for demos or a good DAW for composing.

But the most important thing for me is to remember to be open to experimentation and trying new things. Songwriting can be a very personal process, and it's easy to get bogged down by self-doubt or fear of failure. Remember, not every song you write will be a masterpiece, and that's okay. The goal is to have fun and enjoy the process of creating.

So there you have it, I'm all set and ready to take on this challenge. I'm excited to see what I can come up with in the next 28 days and can't wait to share my progress with you all. If you're also participating in FAWM or any other songwriting challenges, I wish you all the best of luck and please feel free to share your own tips and tricks.

Happy songwriting, friends!

Artistic Burnout - some thoughts and advice

 Artistic burnout is something that a lot of us creative types go through. It's when you're just feeling drained, unmotivated and uninspired. It can happen due to a lot of pressure or stress, and it can make it hard to keep creating. And for some of us, we may struggle with repeated episodes of burnout. It can be frustrating and disheartening but the good news is, it's totally possible to bounce back and get back to making art you're proud of.

First things first, it's important to admit to yourself that you're experiencing burnout. It's easy to feel guilty or like a failure when you're not feeling creative, but burnout is a natural response to a lot of stress. Recognizing it is the first step in getting past it.

One of the best ways to recover from burnout is to practice some self-care. It's important to take care of your body and mind if you want to be able to create. This can mean different things to different people, it could be going for a run, meditating, journaling or just taking a walk in nature. Find something that works for you and make it a regular part of your routine.

Another tip is to take a break from creating. It can be hard to step away from something you're passionate about, but sometimes a break is exactly what you need. A vacation, a sabbatical or even just a few days off can give you the time and space you need to recharge.

It's also important to take a look at your goals and values. A lot of the time, burnout can happen when we feel like our art isn't aligning with what we truly want to achieve. Reflecting on what's important to you and what you want to get out of creating can help you refocus and regain motivation.

Lastly, don't be afraid to reach out for support. Talk to friends and family, seek out therapy or counseling, or join an art support group. Having people to talk to and lean on can make a huge difference in getting through a tough time. It's also important to keep in mind that it's not uncommon to experience repeated episodes of burnout, and it's important to have a plan in place and to be proactive in preventing it.

In summary, artistic burnout is common but it's not the end of the road. By acknowledging it, practicing self-care, taking a break, reflecting on your goals, and reaching out for support, you can come out the other side and get back to making art you're passionate about. Remember, recovery takes time and it's important to be kind to yourself throughout the process. Being prepared for repeated episodes of burnout and having a plan in place can help you to better manage it.

Being an independent musician

 Being an independent musician is like being a small business owner, you have total control over your art and how you want to present it, but it also means you have to wear a lot of hats and figure out ways to promote and make a living off your music on your own.

One of the best things about going independent is the creative freedom you get. You get to pick and choose who you want to work with, and you don't have to answer to anyone when it comes to your music. You can experiment and explore new sounds without any pressure from anyone else. This can lead to a more authentic and true-to-you sound that your fans will appreciate.

Another plus side of being an independent musician is the connection you get to make with your fans. When you're not tied to a big record label, you get to interact with your fans directly and build a community around your music. This can lead to a more dedicated and engaged fan base that will stick with you for the long haul.

But, being independent can also be tough. Without the backing of a label or manager, you have to hustle and grind to get your music out there and get people to notice you. It can be a lot of work and takes a lot of time, effort and sometimes money to make it happen. Plus, without the support of a label, it can be hard to make a living from your music alone, and you may need to have a day job to support yourself.

To make it work, you have to be strategic about how you approach things. Building a strong online presence is crucial, you want to be active on social media and make sure you're regularly putting out content that will connect with your fans. Networking with other independent musicians and industry professionals can also be helpful, you can share resources and support each other. And, you have to be open to change and willing to adapt as the music industry evolves.

Being an independent musician is not for everyone, but for those who are willing to put in the work, it can be a very rewarding and fulfilling experience. You get to be in charge of your own creative destiny, and you get to build a community of fans who truly appreciate your art.

Creativity and Isolation

 Being creative in isolation can be a challenging task, but it can also be an opportunity for self-discovery and growth. The isolation in this case can be self-imposed or imposed by external factors such as a pandemic, a move to a new place, or a change in personal circumstances. Regardless of the cause, being isolated can have both positive and negative effects on one's creativity.

On one hand, isolation can provide a sense of freedom and independence that can be conducive to creativity. Without the distractions and obligations of daily life, one can focus on their craft and explore new ideas and techniques. This can lead to a sense of experimentation and experimentation that can be very beneficial for the creative process.

Additionally, isolation can also help to foster a sense of self-reliance and self-sufficiency. When one is isolated, they must rely on their own resources and abilities to create and produce. This can be a powerful motivator and can lead to a greater sense of ownership and investment in one's work.

On the other hand, isolation can also have negative effects on one's creativity. Without the support and feedback of others, it can be easy to become stuck in a rut or to lose sight of one's goals and objectives. Furthermore, isolation can also lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation, which can be detrimental to both one's mental and emotional well-being.

To overcome the negative effects of isolation, it's important to establish a routine and a schedule for work and play. Setting specific times for creative work and taking regular breaks can help to maintain focus and motivation. Additionally, it's important to find ways to connect with others, whether it's through online communities, virtual workshops, or in-person meetings. This can provide support, inspiration, and feedback that can be essential for the creative process.

Another way to overcome the negative effects of isolation is to find ways to incorporate different forms of inspiration in your work. Inspiration can come from many sources, such as nature, art, music, or even people you meet. It's important to keep an open mind, and be willing to explore different forms of inspiration.

Finally, it's important to remember to be patient with yourself and your work. Creativity is a process, and it can take time to develop and refine. It's important to have patience with yourself and to not be too hard on yourself if you don't produce something great every time.

In conclusion, being creative in isolation can be challenging, but it can also be an opportunity for self-discovery and growth. To overcome the negative effects of isolation, it's important to establish a routine and schedule, find ways to connect with others, incorporate different forms of inspiration, and to be patient with yourself and your work. It's important to remember that creativity is a process and it's not always easy, but it's worth it in the end.

Pig Headed - a bizarro short story

 Once upon a time, in a world that was not quite like ours, there was a man named Bob. Bob was a simple man, with simple tastes and a simple job. He worked as a clerk at a convenience store, stocking shelves and ringing up customers. But one day, everything changed.

Bob was on his lunch break, sitting on a park bench and eating a sandwich, when he saw a strange creature walking down the street. It was unlike anything he had ever seen before. It had the body of a man, but the head of a pig. Bob rubbed his eyes, thinking it must be a hallucination, but when he opened them again, the pig-headed man was still there.

Without hesitation, Bob got up and followed the creature. He followed it down the street, through alleys, and over bridges, until they came to a door that led underground. The pig-headed man opened the door and gestured for Bob to follow him. Bob hesitated for a moment, but his curiosity got the better of him and he followed the creature down into the depths of the earth.

Bob found himself in a vast underground cavern, lit by a strange green light. The pig-headed man led him through the cavern, and as they walked, Bob saw all manner of strange and bizarre creatures. There were people with the heads of dogs, cats, and birds, as well as creatures that were like nothing he had ever seen before. They were all going about their business, as if this was the most normal thing in the world.

As they walked, the pig-headed man introduced Bob to the other creatures, and Bob soon found that they were all quite friendly. They welcomed him to their underground world, and Bob realized that he had found a new home. He quit his job at the convenience store, and soon he too had the head of a pig, and he was happy.

Years went by, and Bob became a respected member of the underground community. He learned the ways of the pig-headed people and the other bizarre creatures, and he even found love in the form of a woman with the head of a snake. They had pig-headed children, and Bob couldn't be happier.

But one day, something strange happened. Bob woke up to find that he was back in the park, on the bench where he had first met the pig-headed man. It was all just a dream, or so he thought. But as he looked down at his hands, he saw that they were now hooves, and he knew that it had not been a dream at all. He had truly found his new home, and he knew that he would never be the same again.

Some thoughts on Bizarro fiction

 Bizarro fiction is a genre of literature that is known for its surreal, absurd, and often grotesque elements. The term "bizarro" was first coined in the late 1990s by author and publisher Eric S. Raymond, and it has since come to encompass a wide range of literature that defies easy categorization. Bizarro fiction can be difficult to define, but it is generally characterized by its embrace of the strange and unconventional, its rejection of traditional narrative structures, and its use of absurdity and absurdity as a literary device.

One of the defining characteristics of bizarro fiction is its embrace of the strange and unconventional. Bizarro writers often use elements of science fiction, fantasy, and horror to create worlds that are not quite like our own, and they often use these elements in unexpected ways. For example, in a bizarro story, a character might encounter a talking tree that speaks in verse, or a city that is built entirely out of candy. These elements are not included to advance the plot or to serve a specific purpose; instead, they are included simply to create a sense of strangeness and otherworldliness.

Bizarro fiction also rejects traditional narrative structures. Bizarro writers often use techniques such as non-linear storytelling, stream of consciousness, and multiple narrators to create a sense of disorientation and confusion. This can make bizarro stories difficult to follow, but it also allows for a greater freedom of expression and a greater sense of experimentation.

Another defining characteristic of bizarro fiction is its use of absurdity and absurdity as a literary device. Bizarro writers often use elements that are bizarre or grotesque to create a sense of unease and disorientation in the reader. For example, a character in a bizarro story might encounter a creature that is half human and half machine, or a city that is inhabited by giant insects. These elements are not included to make sense in a logical way, but to create a sense of unease, disorientation and to challenge the reader's sense of reality.

One of the key themes in bizarro fiction is the idea of the outsider. Many bizarro stories feature characters who are outsiders in one way or another - whether they are outcasts, misfits, or simply people who don't fit in with society's expectations. This theme can be seen as a reflection of the genre itself, which is often seen as being on the fringes of literature.

In conclusion, Bizarro fiction is a genre that defies easy categorization and is known for its surreal, absurd, and often grotesque elements. It embraces the strange and unconventional, rejects traditional narrative structures, and uses absurdity and grotesque as a literary device. It's a genre that allows for a greater freedom of expression and experimentation and often deals with themes of outsiderness and challenging the reader's sense of reality. It's a genre that is not for everyone, but for those who appreciate its unique style, it can be hugely enjoyable.

Revisiting my old material

 Revisiting old musical material can be a powerful and personal experience for any artist. The process of revisiting old songs, albums, and even unfinished demos, unrecorded material, and lyrics jotted down in old notebooks, can bring a sense of nostalgia and remind us of who we were and where we come from as musicians. It can be a reminder of the journey we've been on and the growth we've undergone as artists.

I personally have had the opportunity to revisit old material during my career, whether it be through re-recording songs, playing them live, or simply listening to demos that were never released, revisiting old song ideas and lyrics in my old notebooks. Each time, I've found it to be a valuable and enlightening experience. It's like opening a time capsule and discovering forgotten gems, some of them I felt like they were ahead of their time, some others needed a new approach or production.

One of the reasons I've revisited old material is to reconnect with my past self. When I look back at my old notebooks and see lyrics or song ideas I had written down, I'm reminded of the person I used to be, the emotions I felt and the experiences I've been through. It's a reminder of the journey that I've been on and the growth I've undergone. I've been able to see how my songwriting has evolved and how my perspective has changed. It's helped me to understand the evolution of my art and to appreciate the development of my craft. Revisiting old material has also helped me to reconnect with my roots and where I come from, both musically and personally.

An experiment with flash fiction

 As she walked home from work, Sarah couldn't shake the feeling that she was being followed. She kept turning around, but she never saw anyone. It was a quiet neighborhood, but Sarah couldn't shake the feeling that someone was watching her.

She picked up her pace, her heart racing. She was almost at her front door when she heard a rustling in the bushes. She turned to see a figure emerge, but it was just a stray cat.

Sarah laughed at herself and let out a sigh of relief. She was just being paranoid. As she unlocked her door and stepped inside, she made a mental note to call her best friend and ask her to walk home with her tomorrow.

But as she turned to close the door, she saw the same figure standing on her porch, a sinister grin on their face. 

Creativity and mental health

 As someone who has struggled with mental illness for much of my life, I've learned that finding healthy ways to cope and manage my symptoms is crucial. For me, one of the most effective forms of self-care has been turning to art and music.

Experimenting with different mediums and styles has been a way for me to express myself and process my thoughts and emotions. Whether it's drawing, painting, writing songs, or playing an instrument, creating something from scratch has always had a therapeutic effect on me.

I've found that the process of creating something – whether it's a finished piece of art or a rough draft – can be incredibly cathartic. It allows me to channel my energy and focus on the present moment, rather than getting lost in my own negative thoughts.

In addition to the personal benefits, I've also found that sharing my art and music with others can be a powerful way to connect and find community. Whether it's through social media or live performances, sharing my creations with others has helped me to feel less alone in my struggles.

If you're someone who is struggling with mental health issues, I highly recommend giving art and music a try. You don't have to be an expert or have any particular talent – the important thing is to find something that brings you joy and helps you to feel more grounded. Who knows, it might just become your go-to form of self-care.