What are some tricks for managing debilitating writing anxiety/phobia?

Question

For the past 4 years, I've developed a severe problem with writing anxiety. It's become so bad, that I had to drop out of my first university because I wasn't able to keep up with the course work. I've tried to manage the problem on my own, but with very limited success. Part of my problem is that the reaction is very visceral. I quite literally feel like throwing up when I approach a writing assignment. I haven't been able to unlearn that reaction.I suspect a great deal of my anxiety is coming from perfectionism. I know I shouldn't strive to make my first draft perfect, but it's like I can't help it. I have a lot of difficulty bypassing my inner critic when writing first drafts, so it makes the whole process very stress-inducing and unpleasant, which makes me put off the writing entirely, which then leads to binge-writing sessions which are just terrible.I was wondering if anyone had some tricks for bypassing the inner critic and mitigating the nausea.

Answer 1

Try using a text editor that simulates a coding language. For example Notepad++

This will allow you to color code your thoughts logically as would a programmer, bookmark things, label, etc. Use this as your draft. This will allow maximum organization and perfection including organization of thoughts, chapters, topics, sub-topics etc.

Also check your keyboard, use something that is mechanical. I recommend a switch with Cherry MX Red, feels good and isn't too loud.

I too struggle with writing anxiety due to perfectionism (my palms get sweaty and I freeze up). Using a text editor to start writing has really helped me. Doubles as keeping me away from all of those word processor distractions and back to authoring :)

Answer 2

I first want to say, I am so sorry you are dealing with this. I don't know you, what you have tried or not tried or what could have led to this situation, but you probably know yourself better than anyone. My best suggestions are for you to try to work through this with a qualified counselor. Other than that, I would suggest to just start writing in "stream of consciousness". Do this every day as often as you are able. If you write some things related to your studies you can cut them out and paste them into a blank document and use that as a starting point. These are my only suggestions and perhaps things you have already tried, but I wish you the best.