Journaling Exercises for Better Mental Health
Journaling has many mental health benefits , but it can be tricky to decide what to write about when you're staring at a blank page full of possibilities.
When you don't know what to write about in your journal, use these therapeutic writing prompts to jumpstart your thoughts. Each one will help you understand your mental health, emotional state and so much more.
Writing prompts to tap into your emotions
1. Write down 10 things you feel grateful for and why.
2. Write down 5 things that make you feel happy, then describe why these people, moments or things bring you so much joy.
3. What qualities about yourself do you love the most?
4. When was the last time you cried, and why? How did crying make you feel?
5. Write a letter to your mother or father (without the intention of giving it to them, unless you choose to do so.)
6. Describe your perfect day, from the moment you wake up until the moment you go to bed.
7. Write a letter to your younger self.
8. What does unconditional love look like to you? Describe this love in detail, including how being loved in that way might make you feel.
9. We all have stories that we tell ourselves about who we think we are. What are some stories you tell yourself? Are they true, and do they serve a positive purpose in your life? Can you replace some of these stories with more positive and uplifting narratives?
10. What do you wish other people truly understood about you?
11. What is the biggest struggle you face with your mental health, and what are some subtle signs that you might be struggling?
12. Write a letter to yourself from the perspective of an unconditionally loving friend. Imagine that this person understands your flaws and mistakes, and loves you regardless. What would this person say to you?
13. If you knew you couldn't fail, what are some of the things you would do?
14. What does your dream house look like? Describe the location, individual rooms and other details.
15. The next time you hit a rough patch , what are some of the most important things you'd like your future self to remember?
16. If you could travel anywhere, where would you go and why? Describe your perfect getaway in detail, including the things you'd like to do, places you want to see and other specifics.
17. Write down a fear you'd like to overcome, then brainstorm an action plan for how you'll overcome it.
18. Describe the last time you felt incredibly frustrated, including why you felt that way.
19. What makes you laugh the most?
20. How do you feel right now, both physically and emotionally?
