The Science

Behind

Journaling

Journaling has been known to clear the mind for as long as humans could write...

In 2001, the American Psychological Association published a study where they found expressive writing improved working memory test scores in college students. This was a major hint towards a cognitive mechanism that links writing to health.

Researchers have since found that expressive writing reduces intrusive and avoidant thoughts about negative events and improves working memory. This then frees up cognitive resources for other mental activities such as the ability to cope with stress.

A word from the wise:

"The practice of writing can enhance the brain’s intake, processing, retaining, and retrieving of information… it promotes the brain’s attentive focus … boosts long-term memory, illuminates patterns, gives the brain time for reflection, and when well-guided, is a source of conceptual development and stimulus of the brain’s highest cognition."

-Neurologist Judy Willis

Let's Dive Deeper

There are many mental health and physical health benefits to journaling.

lower blood pressure
decreased neck and shoulder tension
improved immune system
improved wound healing
improved sleep quality
decreased burn out
decreased panic attacks

improved focus
increased attention
increased self awareness
increased self-worth and esteem
decreased anxiety
fewer depressive episodes
increased productivity

The reason journaling might be a great way to either supplement your mental health care or manage acute symptoms is because face to face interventions introduce barriers that are unique to individuals. For example: accessibility, cost, systemic racism, bias, previous medical trauma, privacy concerns, and more.

#individuality

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