Writing books has had a big impact on my mental health, both positively and negatively. Although I have more confidence and self-esteem than I had before, it’s also been an isolating experience.

Writing is isolating

Writing is isolating, but more so when it comes to non-fiction, memoir, because you write in the first person. Not everyone is happy to hear or read about your story, or agree your intention for writing. Fiction writers fare better in that respect. But writing is a life-changing, a unique event that changes the way you think about what you have managed to achieve.

Writing is 'my journey'

It is my journey coming face to face with the truth of learning about my disability and for the first time, piecing the timeline of events together since I was a child. I have written other blogs in more detail about this, if you would like to check those out.

Publishing – stressful and cathartic

The publishing process was stressful, but it was also cathartic, being able to piece my disability together and to learn about ‘me' for the first time. My first book Cerebral Palsy 'A Story' was first published on the 2nd January 2020, when Brexit was agreed, but wasn't yet implemented. The UK physically left on the 31st January 2020. It was also when the Covid-19 pandemic made the news. Since then, Brexit has ultimately changed the way the book industry is able to operate through our changed relationship with Europe, while Covid-19 has changed the way we read books and how we deal with mental health.  

Mental Health Challenges faced by authors

An article in The Guardian references the mounting mental health challenges faced by authors and others in the book publishing industry, particularly in the context of recent global events like Brexit and the Covid-19 pandemic. As an author and writer of non-fiction/mental health books, my work has been massively affected by Brexit and Covid-19. There isn't an appetite for mental health, but I am hoping that will change in the future. It needs to change if we are to stave off physical illness in the longer-term. Mental health should not be ignored.

Mental Health Crisis in the Book Industry

Authors and Mental Health

The article highlights that authors, especially debut ones, often experience significant stress and anxiety. This stress is exacerbated when they are thrust into the spotlight without adequate preparation or support. The creative pressure, coupled with the demands of marketing and public appearances, can be overwhelming, leading to burnout, anxiety and other mental health issues.

Survey Results

A survey mentioned in the article revealed that a substantial number of authors feel unsupported by their publishers, particularly regarding mental health. The survey indicated that many authors suffer from depression and anxiety, with some even contemplating leaving the industry due to the stress.

Other issues include:

Economic Uncertainty

Brexit has introduced economic uncertainty, affecting book sales and publishing contracts. The weakening of the British pound, changes in tariffs, and the uncertainty surrounding trade agreements have all added to the stress levels of authors and publishers.

Market Instability

The instability in the market has also made it harder for authors to secure contracts, leading to financial insecurity and increased pressure to perform.

Impact of Covid-19

Pandemic Disruptions

As already mentioned previously, the Covid-19 pandemic disruptions further intensified these issues, particularly in the early days. With bookshops closing, events being cancelled and distribution channels disrupted, authors faced significant challenges in reaching their audiences. The loss of traditional book launches and the need to move to virtual platforms, also added layers of stress.

Isolation and Anxiety

The isolation caused by lockdowns, along with the fear and uncertainty of the pandemic, has worsened mental health. Authors who work in solitude, found the lack of social interaction and support particularly difficult.

Industry Response and Need for Change

Increased Awareness

In response to these challenges, there has been a growing recognition within the publishing industry of the need for better mental health support. Publishing houses and industry bodies have pledged to provide more training and emotional support, to help authors cope with the pressures they face.

Supportive Measures

Some of the proposed measures include mental health training for editors and agents, providing authors with access to counselling services and creating a more supportive environment throughout the publishing process.

Structural Issues

Pressure to Perform

The industry’s traditional model, which often places enormous pressure on authors to produce bestsellers, is increasingly being questioned. There is a call for a more sustainable approach that prioritises the wellbeing of authors over commercial success. Not all independent authors find commercial successful.

Power Imbalances

The article also addresses the power dynamics in the industry, where authors – especially those who are new or from marginalised backgrounds – often find themselves pressured to conform to the demands of publishers, leaving them with limited control over their work and the promotion process.

In my own experiences, and backed by nine years of writing for The CP Diary before I even started to pick up a pen to write my memoirs, I was fortunate enough and with the help of my publishers, to have the creative freedom to express my thoughts on how I wanted my books to go, for my memoirs to be published. It became a collaborative endeavour, and I am truly delighted with the outcome. My three books are exactly how I wanted them to be, there's not a single thing I would change; if you would like to check those out.

The Call for Systemic Change

Cultural Shift

Beyond individual measures, there’s a call for a broader cultural shift within the industry. This includes reevaluating how success is defined, ensuring fair pay and contracts for authors, and fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment that prioritises mental health.

Collaborative Efforts

The industry is encouraged to collaborate more effectively to address these issues, with publishers, agents and authors working together to create a healthier, more sustainable ecosystem.

There needs to be more emphasises on the need for systemic changes in the publishing industry to better support the mental health of authors, especially in light of the added pressures brought on by Brexit, its connotations and Covid-19. The recognition of these challenges is a crucial first step towards creating a more supportive and resilient industry. (Source: theguardian.com)