THE JOURNAL Therapeutic Benefits of WritingMy writing is a conscious letter to myself. It's a way for me to hold on to pieces as I grow and change and get on with my life." Writing about negative experiences has definite beneIqts, especially for people who have trouble talking about their feelings. It may be anything from a childhood fight with a sister to being fired from a job. But getting your emotions down on paper. whether in a journal or in a letter, can help you come to terms with feelings and resolve them. Writing can also help a person deal with a traumatic event, such as divorce or child abuse. However, since situations like these can obviously leave a person with deep emotional problems, you may want to seek professional counseling as well. Confronting painful events realistically can help us understand them. Journaling is voluntary; it is not graded or judged. It is an added opportunity to spell out ideas, beliefs, attitudes, feelings, in whatever style suits you. It is descriptive and explicit; it is spontaneous and honest. It encourages self-awareness and self discovery. It establishes a sense of competence in being able to discipline and reveal oneself, which is ego-enhancing. It traces growth and changes in thoughts, attitudes and behaviors. Many clients journal throughout therapy. One would like to share an entry with you that evolved from her journaling. This is the 46th psalm she has written. c - 1989 Jeanne M. Harper PO Box 735 Marinette, WI 54143 715 / 735 - 9549

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