The Benefits of Journaling

It is an established fact that with every passing year, each generation becomes more intentional with their mental health. Today’s teenagers and young adults are much more likely to seek professional help than their parents. They are also more open about it. A lot of the stigma that prevented past generations from prioritizing their mental health has been lifted. Today the majority of those who value their mental health choose to turn to self-help, which is an ever-rising fad. Most self-help resources come in the form of journals.

But how does journaling help your mental health? The thing is, journaling is arguably the most honest form of expression. You are simply writing down all the thoughts in your head and whatever emotions you are feeling. Unlike talking to someone, there is no need to censor yourself. You can say literally whatever you want, unafraid of how someone else might perceive your thoughts or feelings. You can confess your struggles without fear of judgement or punishment.

Journaling your inner dialogue is also a way to recognize what you are feeling in a way that you couldn’t before. You can understand your feelings more clearly when they are on paper in front of you. If you struggle with stress, depression, and/or anxiety, journaling can be a great way to take control of those emotions and improve your mental health. After all, finding a healthy way to express yourself can be the best way to deal with feeling overwhelmed. But how do you start journaling, or use its benefits to the upmost ability?

To get the best results, it is a good idea to prioritize the following:

• Relax/Meditate every day before journaling

• Try to write every single day so it becomes a habit

• Prioritize writing your problems, fears, and concerns, but also your good news

• Track your day-to-day changes in your mental health

• Keep it simple and write without structure

• Keep up a healthy diet and sleep schedule

• Keep your journal with you whether on paper or even on your phone

Do what works best for your mental health, whether it is by following the options listed above, or something else entirely. The best thing about journaling is that it is all in your control, and you can do with it what you will. However, it is no debate that the benefits of journaling are not worth passing up. So run to your closest T.J. Maxx and grab your own journal and start your self-help journal to better mental health today!