Journaling for Mental Health

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Impact of Journaling  

Journaling can be incredibly beneficial for an individual’s mental health, providing them with a valuable outlet to process their emotions and thoughts. By putting pen to paper or typing out one’s feelings, people can experience a sense of emotional release and relief, as they externalize and validate their inner experiences. The act of journaling also encourages self-reflection, helping individuals gain deeper insights into their behaviors and thought patterns. This increased self-awareness can lead to personal growth and positive changes in behavior. Additionally, journaling has been linked to reduced stress levels, as it allows individuals to organize their thoughts and gain a sense of control over their emotions and experiences. By expressing gratitude, acknowledging positive moments, and exploring creative ideas within their journals, individuals can also improve their mood and overall well-being. Moreover, journaling can become a problem-solving tool, providing a structured approach to tackle challenges and find effective solutions. By consistently using a journal to manage stress, enhance communication skills, and cultivate self-compassion, individuals can reap the many mental health benefits of this simple yet powerful practice.

Taylor’s Story with Journaling

While I had heard the benefits of journaling spouted many a time, I had never actually tried it. I usually talked with my partner or my best friend when something was really on my mind. I needed to speak my feelings and thoughts to unjumble them from my tangled mess of a brain. So, when it was 3am and no one was around, I finally caved and just opened the notepad on my laptop. I just typed and typed whatever came to the surface first. I just kept typing until I felt…done. It was this messy, emotional, incoherent jumble. But I could think just a little bit clearer.

Message to Bigs everywhere

As Bigs, you have the incredible opportunity to guide and mentor Littles not only in everyday activities but also in nurturing their emotional well-being. Journaling offers a safe space for them to put their thoughts and emotions into words, just like Taylor’s experience demonstrated. By engaging in this practice, Littles can experience emotional release and clarity, enhancing their ability to process what’s going on inside their minds and hearts. We encourage all Bigs to give it a shot and spend 5-10 minutes journaling at the start or the end of time spent with your Little. And with consistent journaling, you can unlock the many mental health benefits that this simple, yet powerful practice has to offer.

NYMAC - Abby Edmond

Abigail Edmond
NYMAC Member

NYMAC - Gabby Dupont

Gabrielle Dupont
NYMAC Member

NYMAC - Taylor Smith

Taylor Smith
NYMAC Alumn

NYMAC - Yasmine Elmi

Yasmine Elmi
NYMAC Member

Mercedes-Benz Canada is the proud title sponsor of BBBSC’s National Youth Mentoring Advisory Council (NYMAC). This nationwide consortium of youth experts (aged 17-28) representing diverse backgrounds is helping to shape the future of mentorship in Canada.

Mercedes-Benz