Writing a book inspired by my own life with cPTSD. Do I use my real name?
Hi everyone!
I’ve already started writing a novel based on my life experiences surviving childhood/young adulthood trauma and my personal journey through therapy. It’s meant to be an inspiring story based in Sydney Australia with some funny moments to lighten the mood and relatable to millennials/gen z.
However I am worried about my safety around telling my story. I’ve talked to some of my friends about this. Lots of people from health professionals to friends to strangers said that I should write a book but I fear if I use my real name I might be hunted down by my enemies. I have a history of being stalked, harassed and a victim of abuse so naturally, I have had to think about hiding my identity as an extra layer of protection.
Do you know of any authors right now that have told their story but their main character uses a fake name? I thought about giving every single character a made up name including my own.
Then there’s the possibility of using a pen name. Is there any issues I should be aware of when doing this?
Honestly I’m torn between being anonymous and being fully unapologetic and brave.
I personally believe my story deserves to be written and I’m not ashamed of my life so I’d like to take ownership of it. But maybe not if it’s too dangerous.
Thank you for any information and advice.