1. What does journaling do?

Journaling offers a safe space to express your innermost thoughts. Often times, the emotions that we’re not comfortable talking to other people about — whether it’s feeling like a burden or not used to expressing that level of vulnerability.

In the Annals of Behavioral Medicine, a study found that students who focused on both, cognitions and emotions while journaling about a stressful event, were actually able to find positive benefits from the event. In short, they found beauty in midst of pain.

In Psych Central, researchers are attributing the mere act of journaling to an array of tangible health benefits. ‘The University of Texas at Austin psychologist and researcher James Pennebaker, contends that regular journaling strengthens immune cells, called T-lymphocytes. Other research indicates that journaling decreases the symptoms of asthma and rheumatoid arthritis. Pennebaker believes that writing about stressful events helps you come to terms with them, thus reducing the impact of these stressors on your physical health.’

In plain, journaling helps you feel free. Don’t knock it till you try it, consistently!

2. Why not just go to therapy?

Therapy is another amazing avenue to help alleviate the mental burden, cope with stressful situations, and discuss with a trained professional. In fact, if you have the access and means to afford it, pursue it! There is a range of online services and in-person counseling at select universities.

Often times, students may not have access to consistent therapeutic care and need other options. Journaling is a compliment to therapy by promoting self-awareness through thinking through your emotions and writing out your thoughts (similar to when you call one of your friends to vent!)

3. I journaled…and nothing happened?

Journaling just like working out doesn’t change much overnight. Consistency, patience, and a willingness to try is all you need to become more self-aware.

4. Will this cure my anxiety/depression/PTSD?

We cannot claim to cure any mental conditions. All we provide is an avenue to express yourself freely.