psychauthors.com

Writer’s Block

So fear creates writer’s block–the dreaded affliction that strikes most writers at one time or another. Sometimes writer’s block settles in for a long, unwelcome stay. One way to get through writer’s block is the obvious–start writing. And writing and writing and writing. The only way you’ll succeed at that task is by shutting down your internal editor.

One way to write is to start a blog. Sound intimidating? Then try commenting on other people’s blogs. Have you noticed that our postings are not literary masterpieces? We know that! We blog for the mere fun of it and to share a few of our thoughts. That’s the attitude that will get you through writer’s block. You can worry about writing a book or a magazine article later. Those goals will come much more easily if you just start making writing a regular habit. –CE

Fear

Random thoughts on writing. EB White said, “I admire anybody who has the guts to write anything at all.” I have a two hour block of writing time scheduled this afternoon and I am already feeling anxious. Putting words down on paper is one of the most difficult activities that I do. And scary. I consider myself a cognitive-behavioral psychologist. The way we treat fear is by having clients “expose” themselves to the feared object or activity. So, I guess that is why I decided to comment on this public blog about my own writing phobia. LS

ADHD

I have been working with children and adults with various attention and learning problems for many years. Fads and science have permeated the scene. I am concerned by the quick decision to diagnose and medicate. I worry that many people have been labeled or misdiagnosed without proper evaluation and consideration of other problems. I am not against using medication when needed, but it should be done with caution. Other strategies and explanations should always be considered.       LS

The self-esteem movement

Self-esteem has been promoted as a wonderful thing and a panacea for emotional problems and unhappiness. We believe that self-esteem does not lead to happiness and does not usually improve anyone’s quality of life. Although low self-esteem contributes to depression and distress, the opposite is not true–most evidence has failed to support the idea that high self-esteem by itself leads to a better life. And in fact, overly high self-esteem has been associated with increased violence and aggression as well as a variety of other problems. If you don’t agree with us, consider reading our book Hollow Kids.–CE