How do you know it's time to give up writing? I wrote 4 manuscripts, then I faced extreme narcissistic family abuse, and I stopped writing for 2 years. Now I try to go back and I can't write even 200 words. How do I know if writing was not for me?

It sounds like you're going through a challenging time with your writing. Experiencing trauma and abuse can significantly impact our creative processes and motivation. Here are a few thoughts to consider:

1. Writer's block after trauma is common. What you're experiencing doesn't necessarily mean writing "isn't for you." It may be a natural response to the difficult experiences you've had.

2. The fact that you wrote four manuscripts before shows you have the ability and dedication to write. That's a significant accomplishment.

3. Healing from abuse and trauma takes time. It's okay if you're not ready to dive back into writing at the same level as before.

4. Consider starting small. Instead of aiming for a full manuscript, try journaling or writing very short pieces without pressure.

5. Writing can be therapeutic. You might explore writing about your experiences or feelings as a way to process them, even if you don't intend to share this writing.

6. Professional support, such as therapy, might help you work through the impacts of the abuse you experienced, which could in turn help with your writing.

7. Remember that your worth isn't tied to your productivity as a writer. It's okay to take breaks or even change directions if that feels right for you.

Rather than thinking about "giving up," consider this a period of transition or reassessment. Your relationship with writing may change, and that's okay. If writing was important to you before, there's a good chance it will be again, even if it takes a different form.