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 Katlyn Shea Sweeney, an indie author.
Please introduce yourself!
Hi my name is Katlyn Shea Sweeney and I am a poet and author of the poetry collection “Anatomy of a Great Amen”.
Please tell us a little about yourself and the kind of stories you write.
I write poetry about mental illness, unrequited love, loneliness, sexual trauma, hope, faith, and healing.
Please share a bit about your mental health journey, as much as you are comfortable with :)
I have bipolar disorder with psychotic features, and OCD. I have been in psychosis six times in my life. I write a lot of my poetry from memories of that time.
How has your mental health influenced your writing process or creativity?
I use my writing as a confessional of sorts. Nothing is off limits. I try to be as transparent as possible so that others can relate and see themselves in my work.
Do you find writing to be healing, challenging, or a bit of both?
I find writing to be both healing in that my thoughts are out on paper where they can’t strangle me anymore. But also it challenges me to name the emotion.
Has your experience with mental health shaped the themes or characters in your stories?
The themes of delusions and confusion and loneliness are shaped by my experiences of mental illness.
Are there any writing routines, boundaries, or self-care habits that help you stay grounded?
I make sure to only write during the day, and limit how much I write at night. Nighttime writing leads to mania which can lead to psychosis.
What advice would you give to other writers who have similar struggles as you?
Don’t be afraid to be as transparent as possible. You never know how your pain will help others.
Have you ever taken breaks from writing to focus on your mental health?
Yes I sometimes won’t write just to focus on sleep!
What’s something you wish more people understood about being a writer with mental health struggles?
Creativity is a gift that often comes from mental illnesses like bipolar disorder! Some of the most brilliant creative minds had mental illnesses!
Is there anything else you'd like to share with the readers?
Anatomy of a Great Amen comes out January 12th!
Where can readers connect with you and your work? (Socials, website, books, etc.)
TikTok: @katlyn.shea
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Thank you for reading!
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