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What Causes Writer's Block

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Because many of today’s psychologists believe that writer’s block has to do with the brain chemistry, many blocked writers are now being treated with medications. They believe that medication such as Prozac, Ritalin, and other stimulants may help the writer based on the theory that the block may be due to a condition called attention deficit disorder. However, many patients who have been put on antidepressants have found that the drugs tend to eliminate their desire to write altogether.

It is difficult to know the true cause of writer’s block because of the fact that a condition that cripples one person may encourage or motivate another. Most agree that anxiety and stress can overwhelm us and cause problems and writing may make some people anxious or apprehensive. However, a moderate level of anxiety can often be helpful and productive because we need that flow of adrenaline to get moving in the direction needed for our project. Stress can also cramp us mentally, making us afraid to continue, thus encouraging procrastination and creating confusion in our thought process to the point that our thinking apparatuses shut down.

Weak motivation can be a cause of writer’s block. This may be in the form of a lack of inspiration. If the work you are doing does not inspire you, you may find it difficult to continue.

A lack of planning can often be a cause of block when a writer has no idea how to advance their story. It is important that you have some idea of where your story is going with an outline of the story and characters.

Perfectionism can cause writer’s block because it leads to anxiety. It is important to remember that a piece can be revised and the first draft does not have to be perfect.

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