Welcome to the newest post in Writing While Healing, a series where I speak with indie authors who’ve found light through writing during their darkest times.
Today, I’m honored to feature Ananya, a student and an indie writer. You can learn more about Ananya here.
Please introduce yourself!
Hi, I’m Ananya! I’m a student and an indie writer, currently working on my debut book while exploring creative journaling. Writing has always been my personal safe space to process life and heal, and I’m excited to share a little piece of that journey here.
Please tell us a little about yourself and the kind of stories you write.
I write stories that lean toward the tragic—tales of characters carrying their own traumas, strong female leads, and love stories that ache in all the right places. Whether it’s thriller, mystery, suspense, or soft romance, there’s always a thread of raw emotion and tragedy running through them, reflecting the complex, inner world of human nature.
Please share a bit about your mental health journey, as much as you are comfortable with :)
I’m still healing, but I’ve battled pretty intense phases of depression in the past, for many reasons. Writing became my outlet—a way to pull myself out of the darkness. Somewhere along the way, it started making sense, like the words were helping me piece myself back together.
How has your mental health influenced your writing process or creativity?
My mental health definitely shaped how I create. Writing became my safe corner — where I could spill every thought without feeling judged. Sometimes it’s hard to write when I’m in a dark place, but it also makes my stories raw and real in a way I never expected.
Do you find writing to be healing, challenging, or a bit of both?
It’s a mix of both. Writing helps me release so much emotion, but there are days it feels draining too. Overall though, it’s one of the few things that makes me feel more like myself.
Has your experience with mental health shaped the themes or characters in your stories?
Absolutely. My characters often carry pieces of my life. They’re messy, complicated, sometimes broken — but they keep going. There’s always pain in my stories, but also little moments of hope.
Are there any writing routines, boundaries, or self-care habits that help you stay grounded?
I try not to pressure myself into writing when I’m burned out. Some days I just journal or write random scenes with no rules. I also take long breaks offline and come back when I feel ready — guilt-free.
What advice would you give to other writers who have similar struggles as you?
Please be kind to yourself. You don’t have to create every day to be a ‘real’ writer. It’s okay to write slow, take breaks, or just feel things. Your words matter, even when they come out in pieces.
Have you ever taken breaks from writing to focus on your mental health?
Many times, yes. And every time I come back, my writing feels more honest. Taking a break doesn’t mean you’ve failed — it just means you’re healing
What’s something you wish more people understood about being a writer with mental health struggles?
That it’s not laziness or lack of discipline. Some days it’s just surviving. And sometimes the bravest thing we do is write one sentence in a storm.
Is there anything else you'd like to share with the readers?
Just that healing isn’t linear, and it’s okay to have bad days. We’re all figuring it out, and your story is worth telling — even in its messiest chapters.
Where can readers connect with you and your work? (Socials, website, books, etc.)
I’m most active on Threads & Instagram (@daisyy_0611) where I post about my writing journey and cozy little life moments. I have a separate book account (@Whisperoflightss). You can also find my books and journals on Ko-fi and Gumroad!
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Thank you for reading!
Bookish Musings sustains on your support. If you like the interview and would like to tip me, you can do it here!
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