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International Notebook Day is celebrated annually on May 18th to promote the use of notebooks for writing, journaling, and other creative endeavours. But notebooks are not just useful for artistic expression – they can also have a positive impact on mental health.
Writing in a notebook can be a form of therapy, allowing individuals to express their thoughts and emotions in a safe and private space. It can be especially helpful for those struggling with mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, or trauma. Putting thoughts down on paper can help individuals process their feelings and gain a sense of clarity.
In fact, research has shown that expressive writing can have a significant impact on mental health. One study found that writing about a traumatic event for just 20 minutes a day for four consecutive days led to a decrease in stress and anxiety symptoms. Another study showed that expressive writing helped individuals with depression improve their mood and overall well-being.
In addition to its therapeutic benefits, using a notebook can also help individuals organize their thoughts, set goals, and track their progress. Writing down tasks and responsibilities can help reduce stress and anxiety by providing a sense of structure and control.
Overall, International Notebook Day is a reminder of the many ways in which notebooks can be used to improve mental health. Whether it's through journaling, expressive writing, or simply jotting down to-do lists, notebooks can be a valuable tool in promoting well-being and self-care. So why not take some time on May 18th to pick up a notebook and start writing? Your mental health will thank you.
Reference:
Sohal, M., Singh, P., Dhillon, B.S. and Gill, H.S., 2022. Efficacy of journaling in the management of mental illness: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Family medicine and community health, 10(1).
Utley, A. and Garza, Y., 2011. The therapeutic use of journaling with adolescents. Journal of Creativity in Mental Health, 6(1), pp.29-41.
Keech, K.N. and Coberly-Holt, P.G., 2021. Journaling for Mental Health. In Strategies and Tactics for Multidisciplinary Writing (pp. 39-44). IGI Global.
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