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Why Writing Can Help in the Battle Against Mental Illness
All you need is a pen and paper and a few minutes of spare time
Looking after your mental health is one of the most important things you can do to stay happy and healthy. Some people struggle more than others with mental health issues, and tackling these problems is a multi-faceted process. Self-care techniques, therapy, and medication all can help keep concerns at bay. However, one approach that is often overlooked is journaling.
What Is Journaling?
Journaling involves writing down your thoughts to make sense of your feelings. You can use your computer, jot your situation down on your phone, or even dictate your problems to get them out in the open. However, writing with a pen and paper is often the most effective way to air your problems. The act of putting pen to paper makes it feel much more deliberate and can help you focus on what you’re writing.
What you write is entirely up to you. Some people prefer to use structured sentences and paragraphs. Others may prefer to write out single words and phrases to express their feelings. If you’re particularly creative, you could use narrative to make sense of your story. Choose what works for you, and try different methods to see what’s best.
