Now I understand why (in general) creative folks prefer not to take anti – depressants. I’m 1. It’s been quite a few weeks that I’ve been taking them, so now I feel competent stating my opinion. Sure they help you feel less sad, but likewise, they stifle all emotions. And for a writer… (as well as all other creatives, I assume) emotions = inspiration. Even sadness is useful. Where do you think all the melancholy songs & stories come from? Artists in happy-go-lucky states? And how glad have we been that these pieces existent, when we were down – and- out? They certainly offer a comrade, that really knows about loss & heartbreak.
Sad pieces, offer solace.
Sad emotions also spur us to create. In order to express these feelings accurately (which, as an artist, accuracy of feeling, is paramount.) Whatever our craft is, it’s usually our most useful means of expression.
For me, writing is the easiest way (+ I have a plethora of relevant resources to draw from) to convey anything complex. Particularly an emotion, as it’s impossible to not feel anything when experiencing a life-altering incident (and non-emotion seems totally unnatural.) Practicing your craft is a great way to tease an emotion out = understand its origin, & therefore, what it’s related to, in detail.