WHAT IS THERAPEUTIC WRITING?

Therapeutic writing — also called expressive writing or therapeutic journalling — involves exploring the source of difficulties people face, and delving in by writing about them continuously for short periods of time. It involves writing exercises and approaches that help people write about their challenging experiences and obstacles in different ways. Although not for everyone, many people have found expressive writing helpful for dealing with past traumas and difficult memories to improve their life in the present.

Reported benefits of expressive writing include:

• Improved health (measured in studies as fewer visits to the doctor)

• Improved mood — short- and long-term

• Ability to connect with others more and/or in a healthier fashion

• More focused and productive at work

• Less stressed