Write Your Way to Better Mental Health

“You can make anything by writing.”  — C.S. Lewis

As much fun as it is being punched in the face by social media platitudes, people showing off how good looking they are, and watching ads, it often isn’t particularly useful. The internets seem to contain a never-ending sea of random and disorganized thoughts. Luckily, there are some truly talented content creators out there. The quality of the content, no matter its form, comes down to one simple base: the writing.

Writing is the ultimate form of expression. It demands collection of thought to be coherent. Creating content can take any form, whether articles, scripts, notes, or a book, but this all requires written prose. It’s been shown to be therapeutic, with creative writing promoting healthier choices, improved relationships and mental health1. After writing about difficult or traumatic events, participants of one study were found to be emotionally stronger and less upset2. The benefits are not restricted to emotional wellbeing. There is also evidence that writing enhances attention span and boosts creativity3. Writing, in any form you decided to take, is just plain good for you.

The best part is writing is its super low barrier to entry. Get a pen and paper or open up a document, then write away. The topic can be anything you want. A fiction novel, journal entry, stream of consciousness, or just hilarious things you wanted to say all day but couldn’t. Don’t like to use a pen or type? Then record a video. It’s truly up to you. Additionally – and this might come as a surprise in the age of oversharing – no one actually has to read or watch it. As discussed above, you reap the benefits simply by performing the act. Take time to write everyday and either share it or burn the piece of paper. Either way, enjoy the benefits to your mental health.

Action: Set aside time to write every day this week about anything you want. Remember, no need to share it.

Further Reading:

  1. WRITING ABOUT EMOTIONAL EXPERIENCES AS A THERAPEUTIC PROCESS
  2. The Event-Specific Benefits of Writing About a Difficult Life Experience
  3. Psychological Benefits of Creative Writing

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