Writing can improve mental health – here's how

"more than 200 studies that show the positive effect of writing on mental health... but researchers don’t completely agree on why or how".

One idea: "safe, confidential way to disclose emotions that were previously bottled up". But "recent studies show an increase in self-awareness ... could be the key".

Turn your attention inward towards the self allows us to "become more aware of our traits, behaviour, feelings, beliefs, values and motivations" - benefits:

• increased confidence
• more accepting of others
• higher job satisfaction
• more effective leadership
• more self control
• make "better decisions aligned with our long-term goals".

Writing can be particularly useful if you write every day, and allows us to reread our writing, giving deeper insights into ourselves. Three particularly relevant ways of writing include:

• expressive writing: "write about thoughts and feelings related to a stressful life event... helps emotionally process something difficult"
• reflective writing "gives people a way to assess their beliefs and actions explicitly for learning and development... ask themselves questions and continuously be open, curious and analytical"
• Creative writing "offers a unique way to explore thoughts, feelings, ideas and beliefs"