Anyone write a journal for MH reasons?

[LivingInLaputa]

I’m strongly considering it, I used to as a teen. I have a long history of MH issues, trauma etc.

I recently started private therapy with an adult autism specialist (have had other types on NHS before) and decided to keep a diary of the sessions, partly as a memory aid and partly to help me process it all and help me get the most of sessions. I’ve found it pretty therapeutic in itself.

Not really sure when to write or how much or... I suppose there’s no wrong answer there but I guess I’m asking does anyone find it helpful? At what point do you fit it into your day?

I tape mine, so I can keep and look back at if needed.
Just download voice recorder.

Yes
Particularly when I'm stressed or anxious. In order to write it down you need to untangle it in your mind which is sometimes half the battle. It's not always possible but I try to always finish on a positive too.

Hi
I used to, for about two years. I added to it most days. I'd write down everything: tips-to-self on what made me feel better, untangling certain behaviour, descriptions of lovely days out with DC, aims for the future, reflections on what caused a sudden or prolonged crash in mood, chats to self to be kind when low mood hung around, to do lists and 'at least I' lists that note what you did manage to do not what you failed to do, which are incredibly helpful on days when you are being really hard on yourself.

I should go back to it.

Thanks all. I’m planning on still keeping the therapy one separate - it will be easier to look back through the sessions then. But otherwise just having a daily write up of the day would be good.

The amount of thoughts in my head really upsets me sometimes (I have been referred for and am expecting diagnosis of ADHD).

I can’t ever just “be” not even when I’m doing one of my supposedly mindful activities like playing the piano. It would be good to get it aaaall out. I’m not entirely sure when I’d write it. I have a barely sleeping toddler, but TBH even when she finally drops off I’m usually so wired that I just sit there faffing online and stuff for ages anyway, so perhaps it would be sensible to try and replace that with sort of decluttering my mind from the day.

I was thinking about ending each entry with one thing I’m grateful for, and one thing I am proud of myself for.

Yeah, did it for several years while coping with a lot of life stress.
It's fabulous....of course, now that things have calmed down, I stopped doing it so regularly.
But, it's like going for a run. I feel better when I do it. Must get back to it soonish.....

Perhaps we should all nag each other to do it :o

I need to get a notebook anyway, but perhaps my first challenge will be to actually start the day that I buy it. Rather than waiting until, say, August 1st, or at least a Monday. Black and white/rule bound thinking is one of my issues

I started a blog, totally out of my comfort zone but its a way to talk about stuff without having to do it face to face with someone. Its also a major achievement for me and pretty satisfying seeing that people actually read it!

I do. There's no structure to it, I never date anything and don't do it every day but it does help.

Well done for blogging, I did for a bit (mostly home education related) but then stopped due to lack of confidence and morning sickness!

Thank you all for the replies. I decided to go into town on Tuesday and get a notebook while I felt inspired enough so I’ve had two evenings of writing now. Just briefly getting thoughts out on paper will be good I think.

Yes, I did it for years. It did help at the time

I do it as a blog too but a private one that only I can read. I love that format as I can add links to online sites I find useful. And I know no one can find it. Makes me feel more secure.
@LivingInLaputa I love your idea of putting down one thing you are grateful for and one you're proud of each day. I think that sort of small action is really helpful at establishing new thought patterns.