Journalling your emotions
Journalling can assist those suffering from anxiety and depression to become aware of what's causing those symptoms and help them find ways to overcome them.
WHEN you were younger, maybe you kept a diary to jot down all your thoughts and deepest, darkest secrets. The act of writing your thoughts onto paper provides a sense of relief, making the world seem clearer.
As you transitioned into adulthood, the practice could have persisted, albeit under a new name: journalling. This involves articulating your thoughts and feelings on paper to gain a clearer understanding of them. For adults grappling with stress, depression or anxiety, maintaining a journal can be an invaluable tool, fostering emotional control and enhancing mental well-being.
Also read: How to sleep better at night and be more alert the next day
Benefits of journalling:Â
- Managing Anxiety: Expressing overwhelming emotions in a healthy way is crucial, and a journal facilitates this process.
- Reducing Stress: By prioritising problems, fears and concerns, journalling helps in developing strategies to resolve issues and minimise stress.
- Coping with Depression: Regularly tracking symptoms can assist in identifying any triggers and how to manage them.
When faced with stress or anxiety, journalling serves as a diagnostic tool to identify the root causes, enabling the development of plans to tackle problems and alleviate stress.
Getting Started with Journaling:
- Consistency is key: Aim to write daily, setting aside a few minutes for this purpose.
- Keep it accessible: Have a pen and paper readily available or maintain a journal on your smartphone.
- Embrace freedom: Your journal has no strict structure; let thoughts flow freely. Don’t worry about spelling or others’ opinions.
- Personalise your approach: The journal is your private space; sharing is optional. If you choose to share, select trusted friends or loved ones.
Maintaining a journal brings order to a seemingly chaotic world, allowing you to explore your deepest fears, thoughts and feelings. View your writing time as a moment of personal relaxation, a time to de-stress and unwind.
For more Southlands Sun news, follow us on Facebook or Twitter. You can also follow us on Instagram.
