How Writing Is Good For Your Mental Health
Writing has many benefits
Writing is an activity many people enjoy, whether it be writing fiction or nonfiction, books, journals, or blogs and articles. However, in addition to being a fun activity, writing is also highly beneficial to overall mental health for the reasons explained below.
Clearer Thinking
Studies have shown that writing helps you think more clearly. While you are writing, you have to think about what you are writing and how you want to structure your thoughts. Writing also keeps your mind sharp with age, as it is a cognitive exercise that keeps grey matter alive in the brain.
Enhances Learning
If you are writing about a topic that requires research, you will find it fulfilling to learn more about something you love. Learning about things keeps the mind sharp and keeps you engaged with the world. Writers are often more receptive to new ideas and more hungry for information and insight.
Increases Self Awareness
Writing is a way to express your feelings and has also been proven to increase self-awareness, which is good for mental health. Reflective writing is the most effective form of writing for increasing self-awareness; it is often used in various work settings to help professionals be more proficient at their jobs.
Reflective writing also helps you analyze situations more critically, helps with problem-solving and significantly reduces anxiety.
Is Calming
Studies have shown that writing, especially journaling, causes people to feel more relaxed, reduces stress, improves mood, promotes better sleep, and increases self-confidence. If you are struggling with anxiety or depression or are just going through a rough time, you may find that journaling, even once a day, will help make you feel a little better.
I hope you enjoyed learning about the psychological benefits of writing as much as I did. If you want more content on coping with ADHD, follow me on Substack.
