Emotional Resilience for Writers

Mental Health Awareness Week runs from 12 to 18 May 2025, and this year’s theme – ‘Community’ – couldn’t be more relevant for writers.

Being a writer can really take a toll on your mental health. The process often feels long and lonely, with friends and family asking for progress updates before you feel confident or ready to share. Or maybe you’re riding the creative rollercoaster; one day your ideas are flowing freely, but the next, self-doubt creeps in and every word feel like a struggle.

Writing can be so private, leaving you feeling suddenly vulnerable when it’s time to put your work out for scrutiny – whether it’s submitting a competition entry, self-publishing on Kindle or sending your pitch and synopsis to a potential agent, this is where the rubber hits the road and your work gets judged.

A writing career also means juggling multiple tasks. If a publisher picks up your work, there could be multiple rounds of edits and cover designs to approve, that need to be balanced with new writing projects, meeting freelance deadlines or even a full-time job.

The business side of being a writer also needs time and attention; chasing up invoices, managing outsourced tasks like editing, proofreading and formatting, chasing pitches, responding to readers and keeping up with marketing and social media are just as essential as doing the creative work.

Managing a portfolio of projects at various gets stressful. Looking after your physical and mental health isn’t just important – it’s essential if you want to sustain a successful writing career.

Finding support

Vulnerability is a common feeling when you start submitting your work to agents and publishers. Suddenly a writing project that had been entirely within your control is out of your hands, and it can be tough to wait patiently for feedback or a decision.

Having practical and emotional support is really important. Connecting with a community of other writers can be a huge help – whether for co-writing sessions, getting feedback on your work-in-progress, or just to offload after a rejection or a frustrating day, having writing buddies can make a huge difference. And of course you get to share and celebrate each other’s successes too!

Social media is a great way to connect with other writers, either through Facebook groups or relevant hashtags on Instagram. But for more structured help, support or advice, check out the organisations below:

The Society of Authors

The Society of Authors provides events, training and resources for all types of writers, from novelists to bloggers, poets to scriptwriters. Members have access to unlimited free advice on publishing, including contract vetting, and also receive a copy of quarterly journal, The Author, and discounts on books and events. Emerging writers can join as Associate Members and access the same benefits as regular members.

The Society of Authors also offers a range of health and wellbeing advice for both members and non-members available here The Society of Authors Health and Wellbeing Resources

Find out more about membership at The Society of Authors here.

The London Writers’ Salon

Founded by Parul Bavishi and Matt Trinetti, London Writers’ Salon provides a home for writers around the world to grow their practice, refine their craft, build their creative life and find creative friends. They run daily online writing sessions in different time zones, host events and courses and produce a podcast featuring interviews with established writers on mindset, creative practices career sustainability.

Learn more about London Writers’ Salon and their free and paid membership options here.

Wellbeing in the Arts

Burnout is a real risk for writers. Long hours at the keyboard, pressure from family and friends who want updates before you’re ready to share, and balancing your writing around a full time job or other responsibilities creates stress that can slow or even derail your progress.

Wellbeing in the Arts is an organisation offering mental health and wellbeing support for people working in the creative industries. They provide low-cost counselling and coaching for those working on emotionally challenging pieces or running writing workshops with vulnerable groups. Sessions start at £15 and cover both personal and professional concerns.

They’re also running a one-hour online workshop, Preventing Burnout, at 7.00pm on 4th March. It offers tools for managing stress and building resilience. Tickets cost £7.50.

Book here for Preventing Burnout with Wellbeing in the Arts

Time for A Stretch

Writing requires stamina, so It’s important to recognise when you need to take a break –stepping away from the keyboard, going for a walk or spending time on non-writing activities helps keep your body and mind in balance.

Physical movement is also important. Long hours at your desk can lead to back pain, hand or wrist problems or eye strain. Simple ergonomic exercises can help – just a few minutes of stretching makes a difference.

Prioritising your well-being allows creativity to thrive. Writing can feel solitary at times, but you don’t have to navigate the journey alone. Connecting with a community can make all the difference.