In my psychology class, we are learning about different psychological therapies. From this discussion, I have come to understand that writing is my own sort of therapy. Although there’s no therapist or couch to lay on, putting pen to paper helps me deal with my emotions and make sense of my world.
For as long as I can remember, I have had trouble speaking aloud. Whether it be a stammering issue, a stutter, or just an extreme case of shyness, I am never the chatterbox in a situation. But just because someone does not talk does not mean they do not have feelings or thoughts. These ideas just start to pile up, but that is unhealthy. Almost all thoughts and emotions are meant to be expressed, or else why would we have them? So instead of speaking, I prefer to write. When I write, I don’t trip over my words, rather they flow freely. I can say what I want to say with ease and adjust as I go. Writing is my favorite form of release. I always feel like a weight has been lifted off of me after I journal for the day.
A few years ago, I went through a pretty rough time in my life. My family structure was crumbling around me, and there was not much I could do to save it. The judge thought it would be in my benefit to go to a therapist, so there I went. Although she was kind and willing to help, I was still afraid to say what was on my mind. Even though professional therapists are trained to be unbiased and nonjudgmental, I could not shake the feeling that she making opinions on me based off what I confessed. That’s the great part about writing; no one is there to judge what you write. It’s just you, a pen, and a piece of paper. I can record thoughts that some people may not understand. Your secrets are safe.
According to the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance, psychotherapy can help you “define and reach wellness goals”. This idea can be used for everyone, not just those suffering from a mental illness. Therapists sit down with clients and identify and goal, make a plan, and are in charge of tracking how you work towards that goal. Writing things down can be a great way to track your progress towards a personal goal as well. Sometimes we forget what we did or how we were feeling in the past, but recording these things can show you how much you have grown over time, and that is something to be proud about.
Putting my thoughts on paper has helped me unwind and release the negative energy in my life, allowing me to focus on more positive things. I highly recommend everyone to keep a journal, but sometimes that may be one part of a larger plan; U Matter, We Care here at UF provides a multitude of services for students in distress and is there to help you. We should always try to be living our best lives, and writing is one avenue that helps me do just that.
Sources: Depression and Bipolar Disorder Support Alliance, http://www.dbsalliance.org/site/PageServer?pagename=wellness_brochures_psychotherapy
Photo credit: Careermetis.com, https://www.careermetis.com/increase-writing-efficiency/