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You might be wondering how writing in a journal can have a significant impact on your mental health. After all, it’s just putting some words on a page—how much can that really do for you?
It turns out that this simple practice can do a lot, especially for those struggling with mental illness or striving towards more positive mental health.
Journaling requires the application of the analytical, rational left side of the brain; while your left hemisphere is occupied, your right hemisphere (the creative, touchy-feely side) is given the freedom to wander and play (Grothaus, 2015)! Allowing your creativity to flourish and expand can be cathartic and make a big difference in your daily well-being.
Here are 25 prompts, questions and ideas to explore:
Here are 25 prompts, questions and ideas to explore:
My favorite way to spend the day is…
The two moments I’ll never forget in my life are… Describe them in great detail, and what makes them so unforgettable.
Make a list of 25 things that make you smile.
The words I’d like to live by are…
I couldn’t imagine living without…
When I’m in pain — physical or emotional — the kindest thing I can do for myself is…
Make a list of the people in your life who genuinely support you, and who you can genuinely trust. (Then make time to hang out with them.)
What does unconditional love look like for you?
What would you do if you loved yourself unconditionally? How can you act on these things whether you do or don’t?
Name what is enough for you.
If my body could talk, it would say…
Name a compassionate way you’ve supported a friend recently. Then write down how you can do the same for yourself.
What do you love about life?
“Write about a time when work felt real to you, necessary and satisfying. Paid or unpaid, professional or domestic, physical or mental.”
Write about your first love — whether a person, place or thing.
Using 10 words, describe yourself.
What’s surprised you the most about your life or life in general?
What can you learn from your biggest mistakes?
I feel most energized when…
Make a list of everything that inspires you — from books to websites to quotes to people to paintings to stores to the stars.
What’s one topic you need to learn more about to help you live a more fulfilling life? (Then learn about it.)
I feel happiest in my skin when…
Make a list of everything you’d like to say no to.
Make a list of everything you’d like to say yes to.
Write the words you need to hear.
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