If you’re looking to boost your mental health, personal writing might not immediately come to mind. While you may have kept a diary as a kid, continuing the habit as an adult can feel challenging. However, personal writing can positively impact you at any age. Here are five ways to practice writing for yourself and improve your mental health.
First, if you want to start journaling, it’s better to pick up a new notebook and pen rather than opening your laptop. You may be out of practice, but writing by hand has its benefits. When you write by hand, your brain receives signals about what you’re writing, making you more engaged and forcing you to write slower. This helps you better absorb and remember your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Handwriting is particularly helpful if you want to reflect on your experiences and emotions more deeply.
If you’re feeling stuck or need a different perspective on a situation, writing about it can be a great solution. Try to write about the event as if you are a neutral observer. Research has shown that married couples who wrote about their arguments from a neutral viewpoint gained new insights into their disagreements and were happier overall in their marriages.
When dealing with complex emotions, sorting them out can be overwhelming. Writing down your feelings and sharing them with others can be beneficial. Consider joining online writing groups to share your writings and get outside perspectives. This can help you develop a plan of action. Writing for others can also be therapeutic. Just ensure your writing is clear and easy to read for the best feedback.
Often, people see writing as a way to vent when angry or upset, which can be helpful in the short term. However, the benefits of writing extend beyond immediate relief. Keeping up with writing as a habit can improve your mood, reduce depressive episodes, and lower stress levels in the long term. There are even physical benefits like lower blood pressure and better liver function. With so many advantages, it’s easy to see why people write regularly. If you need inspiration, you can find plenty of ideas online.
Many people don’t spend enough time appreciating what they’re thankful for. Keeping a gratitude diary is a great way to practice personal writing. Spend some time each day jotting down what you’re grateful for, and you’ll start to notice more things that make you happy. People who maintain a gratitude diary tend to exercise more and get better sleep, possibly because feeling positive encourages self-care. If you struggle with sleep, try writing down what you’re thankful for before bed; it might help.
In summary, there are several compelling reasons to try personal writing to enhance your mental health. Everyone can benefit from a little boost now and then, so give it a try and see the difference for yourself.