Expressive Writing

Writing therapy uses writing and processing the written word as a tool to address emotional trauma. For many years, therapists have asked patients to use logs and journals to help them heal from, and process, stresses and traumas.

By helping people manage and learn from negative experiences, writing strengthens their immune systems as well as their minds. Just “getting it out” is not enough to make a difference. Patients can learn about how they react to their emotions and triggers, and how to better control those responses.

Writing can help patients get better, and also keep them from getting worse, by having a consistent emotional outlet. It is very much like therapy; as long as patients are learning from the writing process, and gaining more understanding, it is valuable to their mental health.