Regardless of how well or badly life has been treating us, most can agree that concerns about mental health are at an all-time high. Over the past few years, with the ongoing effects of Covid, threats of a third and probably final world war, uncertainty and acrimony in the political sphere, not to mention the large and small crises in our personal lives, many of us find ourselves needing to take steps to protect or rescue our mental well-being. And let’s face it, for the reasons listed above and oh so many more, we all could use ways to lighten our outlook on the world.
One of the best ways I’ve found to improve my own mental health is expressive writing. Researchers have found multiple benefits connected with this form of writing. By putting our thoughts down on paper, we help ourselves process difficult experiences, putting space between ourselves and painful events or circumstances. Even setting relatively small goals, like writing for 15 minutes a day, can improve our outlook by giving us a small sense of accomplishment and allowing us to escape our worries through creativity.
Expressive writing can take many forms. Some may enjoy journaling or writing poetry about their experiences. Others may want to escape into the world of fiction by creating their own imaginary worlds. Whatever your preferred method of expression, HCPL can help support your efforts with writing resources like the books below. And when you’re ready to share your work, check out HCPL branch writing groups in Events.
This article was originally published by HCPL blogger Bronwyn S.
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