Many questions have been asked about writer's block, but I believe I have something worse. I have recently started breaking out into areas I have wanted to but have been too afraid to. I went for a spoken word audition and also uploaded entries to a couple of writing competitions. The aftermath was diarrhea (for real) and getting terribly physically ill. With courage, my body exhibits its fear stronger than I imagined it could. Has anyone had this experience? And what have you done about it?
Thank you so much for your answers. Definitely will try see a professional about it.
I have to agree with Lorraine - stress often has unexpected (and unwanted) side effects which can appear after the event as well as in advance. Mine have tended to be after: it used to be urticarial, which first raised its blotches after my exams and has erupted at odd times since, most spectacularly in the middle of my honeymoon. Nowadays I don't get a rash, it presents as heartburn which I know is not as it appears because the symptoms respond to antihistamine rather than antacids.
If you too are suffering after the event, at least it means you can deal with difficult situations when they arise. Yes, the aftermath is a bit of a pain to experience but by then source of the problem has been dealt with, which has to be good.
Frankly I found talking to a doctor about this a waste of time, though medical attitudes may have changed in 30 years. Stress counselling sounds like it might be worth a go but I'm far too stuck in my ways to try :)
Best of luck!
If you have ruled out any dietary causes, Jedidah, or other health issues - any new medication you're taking, for assistance - then you are probably suffering from clinical stress. It's akin to stage-fright: even seasoned actors can be so terrified that they throw up before going on stage. This kind of response is extreme and it's worth talking to a health professional or stress counsellor.
Lorraine