We've all been there. Those moments when everything feels pointless, when you're stuck in a loop of negative thoughts that seems impossible to break. It's one of those questions that hits differently in the creative industry, where we're constantly questioning our work, our worth, and whether any of it matters.

This raw, honest question touches on something many of us experience but rarely talk about openly. When you find yourself wondering what's the point, you're not alone, and more importantly, there are practical ways to shift out of this headspace.

This question was answered by Tara Hurster, psychologist and founder of The TARA Clinic, a mental health expert who specialises in supporting successful people with addiction and mental health challenges, and Andy Wright, host and CEO of Streamtime, who founded Never Not Creative to make the creative industry kinder and fairer.

When thoughts become dangerous, reach out immediately

Tara addresses something crucial right from the start: "If someone is experiencing suicidal ideations or perhaps they're wanting to hurt themselves, it is a really really important time to reach out for some professional and more kind of Crisis Support."

She specifically recommends the Suicide Call Back Service, noting that "Lifeline is so overused and doesn't have always someone to be able to answer the phone." What makes her advice particularly practical is this suggestion: "I would actually encourage every single person... that they call this place even if you're not feeling unwell and just call them and say hey I just want to know what this service provides."

This isn't about being dramatic or overreacting. It's about being prepared and knowing your options before you need them.

Challenge the vague thoughts that keep you stuck

When you find yourself wondering what's the point, Tara explains that "the best way to sort of escape any kind of circle is to challenge unhelpful thoughts and challenge unhelpful language."

The problem with "what's the point" is that it's too vague to work with. As Tara puts it: "What's the point doesn't necessarily tell me anything. I would need more context to try and work out what's going on here, which suggests that you also need more context to work out what's going on."

Instead of staying stuck in that general feeling of pointlessness, she suggests getting specific about what you're actually experiencing.

Get clear on what's really happening

Tara recommends a practical approach: "Sit up like a helicopter and hover over your circumstances and actually write down the reality of the situation, not what we think is happening but what is actually happening."

This helicopter view helps you separate facts from feelings. When you're wondering what's the point, you're often caught up in emotional interpretations rather than dealing with concrete realities. Writing down what's actually happening gives you "something tangible that we can actively choose to look at and work on."

How NNC Circles can help break the cycle

Sometimes escaping a vicious cycle requires connection with others who understand what you're going through. NNC Circles are peer support groups specifically designed for creatives facing mental health challenges.

These monthly sessions bring together small groups of 8-10 creatives in safe, confidential spaces where you can share experiences and learn practical skills. The groups focus on giving and receiving support with peers who understand the unique pressures of creative work. With a minimum six-month commitment, Circles provide the ongoing support that can help you develop new patterns of thinking and break out of negative cycles.

When to seek professional help

If you find yourself wondering what's the point more often than feels manageable, or if these thoughts are interfering with your daily life, it might be time to seek additional support. Professional help isn't a sign of weakness; it's a practical tool for getting unstuck.

The Never Not Creative help resources provide immediate access to crisis support services across different countries, including the Suicide Call Back Service that Tara specifically recommends. These services are staffed by trained professionals who understand how to help you work through difficult thoughts and feelings.

You're not stuck forever

When you're wondering what's the point, it can feel like you'll never escape this vicious cycle. But as Tara's advice shows, there are concrete steps you can take: get specific about what you're actually experiencing, challenge vague negative thoughts, and reach out for support when you need it.

The creative industry can be isolating, but you don't have to figure this out alone. Whether it's calling a support service, joining a peer group, or simply writing down what's really happening in your life, taking that first step can help you start seeing a way forward. You matter, your work matters, and there are people ready to help you remember why.

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