When someone tells you to take some time and journal about, what is your response?  Are you like, “Yeah, I can’t wait to do that!”  Or are you like most people who let out a sigh and think, “Eh, no thanks, I don’t really like to do that.”

Maybe you don’t think it helps or maybe you haven’t really tried it because it doesn’t seem like ‘your thing’. Whatever the reason, here are a few things to consider before you count out journaling as a viable coping strategy.

First and foremost, writing down your thoughts and feelings can help you process and make sense of your emotions.

Here are other key benefits of writing out your thoughts:

• When you journal, it provides a safe space for self-expression. This is a safe space to express yourself without fear of judgment. Writing also helps process difficult emotions and thoughts in a healthy way.
• It can reduce stress and anxiety: Keeping your emotions bottled up can lead to increased stress and anxiety. Writing about your feelings can help you release some of that tension and feel more relaxed.
• It increases self-awareness and promotes motivation for change: By reflecting on your emotions in a journal, you can gain a deeper understanding of yourself and your reactions to certain situations. This increased self-awareness can help you make positive changes in your life.
• It promotes problem-solving: Journaling can help you identify patterns or triggers in your emotions, which can then help you develop strategies for managing them. Writing down your goals and progress can also help you stay motivated and focused.
• It can drastically improve your mood. Getting your thoughts and feelings out of your head and onto paper can be cathartic, and can lead to a sense of relief which allows space for positive emotions and ultimately, an improved mood.

In short, journaling can be an effective and accessible way to improve your mental health.

So whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, or just looking to gain a deeper understanding of yourself, taking the time to reflect and write down your thoughts can be a powerful way to support your well-being.  Ultimately, only you can say with certainty what works for you.   Give it a try and see what you think.

Wishing you a beautiful day!