INFOGRAPHIC: Why Writing Can Be Therapeutic

Therapeutic Writing

If you believe writing can be therapeutic, you’re not alone. As writers we can often be very tough on ourselves. We strive to meet deadlines or send out pitches. We scrutinise every piece of work,wondering if we will ever get published/produced, or reach our readers and viewers in the ways we wish.

But how often do we throw off the shackles of our own or others’ expectations and just write whatever we feel like writing?

What if we could write for self-reflection and contemplation rather than writing for others? Would that be too indulgent?

Therapeutic writing allows us to explore our emotions and our well-being. It allows us to simply write for the sheer enjoyment of it. Nothing is expected of us. For a busy writer, it could be just the therapy you need.

Stress Relief

There are many benefits to therapeutic writing as it enhances both our physical and mental health. When you write whatever you feel like, whenever you feel like it, it can feel liberating and provide much needed stress relief.

Therapeutic writing can take many different forms including journaling, poetry and letter writing. Some of these may be unusual or surprising choices for you, but all of them come with the promise of internal therapy. Choose one that speaks to you and you’ll soon find the joy that comes with it.

The infographic below by The Expert Editor below shows you the different types of therapeutic writing and highlights the many health benefits that it can produce. When it’s done little and often, it can help to develop empathy, critical thinking, creativity and social skills. The best part is that you can choose the time and place that suits you, and it costs nothing.

So if you’ve always been skeptical about this kind of writing, why not open your creative mind and give it a try. We’re sure you’ll be converted. Check out the infographic after the jump. Enjoy!