I wasn't sure if this question was just for those diagnosed with PTSD, or if I could respond to it also - so forgive me if I shouldn't have responded to it.

Since I did suffer abuse as a child, I found that being creative helped me through a lot of tough times. Punishments often meant I had to stay in my tiny, crowded room for hours, and sometimes I grabbed my brother's albums and drew the band members and the band logos.

These days, I'm a freelance graphic artist (my own part-time business), I have had short stories published and I write poetry and song lyrics. I've designed the logo and the first CD cover/case for a friend's band, which was a long time dream of mine. In appreciation, they promised to record one of my own songs on their next CD. A few months ago I took up piano lessons (the first time I've ever learned to play an instrument) and after my second lesson I wrote a basic melody for the song they're going to record, so I'll also get a music credit on the CD (that part just blows me away, but they insisted). I've also taught myself web design as well as a few graphics programs on the computer.

I enjoy it, but if I'm not in a good mood I have a hard time being creative, so that's why it's only part-time for me. I just don't want to lose the passion by having to rely on it for my bills.