Finding strength through creativity — how poetry and hobby programming help me live with mental illness

Hey everyone,

I wanted to share a bit about my personal journey — not for pity, but to connect with others who might understand.

I live with a mental health condition that can make everyday life difficult — especially when it comes to motivation, focus, and emotional balance. Over the years, I’ve learned that creativity can be a quiet but powerful way to heal and stay grounded.

For me, that creativity comes through writing poetry and hobby programming. Poetry helps me express what’s too complex or painful for ordinary words — it gives shape to emotions that used to overwhelm me. Programming, on the other hand, gives me a sense of structure and control — I like building small retro BASIC projects, little text-based games, or simulations. When I code, my thoughts become calm and ordered; I can lose myself in logic instead of anxiety.

Sometimes I share my poems and projects on my small YouTube channel — it’s where I document my journey through creativity and healing: youtube.com/@ron77-r5l

I guess what I’m trying to say is — healing doesn’t have to be grand. It can happen quietly, line by line, word by word, piece by piece.

If anyone else here uses art, writing, or programming as part of your recovery or self-care, I’d love to hear how it helps you too.

Thank you for reading, Ronen