If you’re looking to boost your mental health, personal writing might be something you haven’t considered. You might have kept a diary as a kid, but as an adult, it can feel more challenging to maintain that habit. However, writing can offer several mental health benefits, no matter your age. Here are five ways you can practice personal writing and see improvements in your mental well-being.
First, if you want to start journaling, it’s a good idea to pick up a new notebook and pen rather than using your laptop. While you might be out of practice, writing by hand can be more beneficial. When you write by hand, your brain gets more involved with the content, forcing you to slow down and better absorb your thoughts and feelings. This can help you remember and process your experiences more effectively.
If you’re feeling stuck in a situation and need a fresh perspective, writing about it can be very helpful. Try writing about the event as if you were a neutral observer. Studies have shown that married couples who wrote narratives about their arguments from an outsider’s perspective gained better insights into their disagreements and experienced more happiness in their marriages.
When dealing with complex emotions, writing can help you sort through them. It can be tough to untangle your feelings when you’re in the middle of a tough time. Writing down your emotions and sharing them with others can offer a new viewpoint and help you figure out your next steps. Joining online writing groups and sharing your work can also provide support and valuable feedback on your situation.
Many people see writing as a way to vent when they’re upset or angry, and while it can provide immediate relief, the long-term benefits are even more significant. Regular writing can lead to a better mood, fewer depressive episodes, and lower stress levels. It can even have physical benefits, such as lowering blood pressure and improving liver function. With so many advantages, it’s no wonder that many people write regularly to enhance their health.
Another excellent way to use personal writing is by keeping a gratitude diary. Spend a few minutes each day jotting down what you’re thankful for. Over time, you’ll start to notice more positive aspects of your life, which can make you feel happier. People who keep gratitude diaries also tend to exercise more and get better sleep, possibly because feeling positive makes them more motivated to take care of themselves. If you struggle with falling asleep, try writing down things you’re grateful for before bed—it might help.
As you can see, personal writing has several benefits for improving mental health. Everyone can use a little boost now and then, so why not give it a try and see how it works for you?
