Happy Saturday! Journaling is a self-care exercise that involves recording your life events and related feelings and thoughts. It can be a way to declutter your mind and cope with stress, anxiety, and depression. As you put your thoughts into words, you begin to express and process emotion. You identify patterns. You reflect on ways to improve your well-being. If you are interested in how journaling can improve your mental health, then keep reading for all the deets.

the benefits of journaling for mental health

There are many types of journal practices and many ways to express yourself. Journaling can boost mood, reduce feelings of distress, and improve immune function.

Journaling enables you to confront past issues and organize your thoughts. It can also be a tool for gaining insight. As you reflect on your experiences, and emotional reactions, you may notice patterns emerge. Journaling can be particularly useful for people struggling with issues they don’t want to share with others. It helps when they feel they can’t talk freely about their problems.

Journaling benefits:

• Manage symptoms of major depressive disorder
• Treating symptoms of PTSD
• Promoting reflection
• Easing anxiety

Types of journaling:

• Expressive writing
• Gratitude journal
• Visual journaling
• Mood tracker
• Bullet journaling

How to journal:

Find a quiet place to write-you don’t want to be distracted by other people or your surroundings.

Choose a time when you’re unrushed. Aim for a time when most of your other daily activities are completed. This way, you can better focus.

Try to be consistent with the timing-you might decide to write for 10 minutes at the same time every evening. Being consistent in this way can help make it a habit that sticks.

Continuously journal for the allotted time-don’t worry about spelling or grammar just get your thoughts out.

Consider combining journaling with therapy if you are continuing to have a hard time. This combination can help you self-reflect. It can also help you gain a better understanding of your emotions and life circumstances. Journaling is a tool that can have a positive impact on your mental health.

–Chantel Keona