After trips to the psych ward, different medications, 100s of doctors appointments and many councilling sessions there is one thing that stands by me time and time again, and that is crafting.
While through mania my creativity seems like a lie and through depression creativity seems like a chore. Creativity and creating is something I always come back to to feel more control and to feel grounded.
Crafting For Mental Health
During manic episodes I often feel like I can not control anything I do or think, during these periods I tend to be more creative, while my work tends to be different than my usual, creating something helps give me control and slow my thoughts down. Everything feels a little less chaotic when I’m crafting. And Vis versa when I am in a low period. Starting to craft can feel like a forced chore, but the satisfaction of focusing and finishing something helps to lift me up.
Whether I’m stitching embroidery, painting, or working with yarn, my focus shifts from my thoughts to what is in front of me.
It’s not about being perfect.
It’s about being present.
Even just a few minutes of stitching can quiet the noise in my head and bring me back to the moment.
It Slows Me Down (In the Best Way)
In a world that constantly feels rushed, crafting forces me to slow down.
Each stitch, each brushstroke, each loop of yarn takes time.
And that’s the point.
When my thoughts are racing, crafting becomes a great way to regulate my emotions.
It Gives Me a Sense of Control
When mental health is bad, we often feel unpredictable, but crafting creates a sense of control.
You choose the colours,
decide the pace.
And see progress.
Crafting as a Form of Self-Care
For me, self-care isn’t always bubble baths or face masks which you often see on Instagram. Crafting and creating can be a form of self care too.
Doing a relaxing craft,, like painting, crochet or embroidery is sometimes all we need to slow down and relax. There should be no preassure, its purely just to stop and relax
If You’re Struggling Too
It’s true, you don’t have to be “good” at crafting to start.
You don’t need expensive supplies.
You don’t need a plan.
Just start small.
- A simple embroidery stitch
- A few lines of doodling
- A tiny crochet project
Let it be messy. Let it be unfinished, just enjoy the process and slow down and relax
Final Thoughts
Crafting won’t fix everything, but it will force you to be grounded, and present which is sometimes all we need to relax.
Remember have fun and enjoy crafting, thats all that matters.