Mental Benefits Of Keeping A Journal

Do you feel overwhelmed? Stuck maybe? With absolutely no idea how to help yourself out?
Don’t wallow. Here’s what you should do instead- pick up a pen and a notebook, time to begin journaling.

While the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word journal is a little girl with a big smile on her face, lying down on her bed, writing a love letter to her crush. It’s not always so.

There are other important reasons why people keep a journal. One of which is its intriguing effects in providing mental support especially to people battling with mental illnesses.

If you’re still in doubt, here are 3 mental benefits of keeping a journal you may not know before.

Journaling Alleviates Depression

Expressive writing concerning your deepest thoughts and feelings can be a guide to helping you process negative emotions- a leading cause of depression– while embracing positive ones.

Are you still wondering how journaling can help with depression? According to research “people diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder reported significantly lower depression scores after three days of expressive writing, 20 minutes per day”

Well, who knew the mere act of pouring your feelings on paper can result in such a profound positive change? Interesting, isn’t it?

Journaling Reduces Anxiety And Stress

What better ways to deal with the day-to-day struggles than through the act of journaling? Penning down your feelings not only gives you more clarity about your emotions but is an incredible mechanism for dealing with stress and anxiety, hence, improving overall performance.

To achieve this, fix a particular time of the day to write, preferably at night, and commit to it. Write about what happened during the day, how you reacted to it, and how you feel about it. Most importantly, if need be, write what you wish you’d done differently.

Remember, commitment is key. Be sure to stick to your writing schedule as much as possible.

Journaling Promotes Awareness Of Your Thoughts

Humans are fond of hiding their emotions even from themselves. This is another good reason why you need a journal, as writing helps you recognize both your current and past feelings or emotions.

A psychologist, Barbara Markway said, “There’s simply no better way to learn about your thought processes than to write them down”.

For instance, when revisited, your writings can reveal whether you were angry, sad, or simply indifferent about a certain situation at the time you put it down. And in so doing, can give you control over your emotions alongside reactions should the same occurrence repeat itself in the future.

To round up, read what Ruth Ozeki has to say about the act of journaling,

“For me, writing is a way of thinking. I write in a journal a lot. I’m a very impatient person, so writing and meditation allow me to slow down and watch my mind; they are containers that keep me in place, hold me still”.

Whatever challenge you may be going through, journaling can be your next therapy to go to. So, what are you waiting for? Grab that notebook and pen and begin your journaling journey today. Stay consistent and the positive effects will mesmerize you.