Making things while you mend

Start absurdly small

Four lines. One voice note. A verse copied out by hand because you liked it. The aim is not a finished piece; it is to prove to yourself that the making part of you is still in the building.

Let it be bad

Perfectionism and low mood are old friends and they gang up. A rough, honest page beats a polished one you never started. Nobody has to see it.

Name it, then leave it

Write the difficult feeling down, close the book, and go outside. Writing gives the thought a place to sit that isn't the inside of your head — but you still need the walk.

Tell one person

Creativity is a good companion and a poor substitute for other people. If things are heavy, say so out loud to someone today, even clumsily.