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JournalingA journal is a continued series of writings made by a person in response to their life experiences and events. A journal may include a description of daily events, but also contains reflections on what took place and expresses emotions and understandings about them. Many people find benefit in expressing their feelings in "journaling." Such writings are personal and usually limited to only the person doing the writing. Sometimes journal writing is used by members of a support group as a means of sharing some of their thoughts with others, and receiving encouragement in return. Journal writing is not something that everyone would enjoy or benefit from. For those who do, journal writing can be used as a format for organizing thoughts and ideas, addressing specific questions or problems, and evaluating goals and plans. Through "unsent letters", a person can express feelings to a particular person in the form of a letter, then keep it for future reference, or destroy. The process of putting feelings into words can be an emotional release for some people, as well as the opportunity to re-read and try to make sense of the feelings and issues involved. Journal writing also provides time for self-reflection: an opportunity to note the positive aspects of one's life, to reflect on the little things that make a difference, and to give self-praise. In 1977, at the age of 68, Elizabeth Layton, a woman in Wellsville, Kan., began to use drawing and writing as a way to deal with grief and loss. She found these combined activities to be a means of expressing her innermost thoughts and feelings, and eventually helped her to overcome depression. She continued, until her death at age 83, to use these techniques to examine her own aging issues, as well as many other personal and social issues including women's rights, racism, poverty, homelessness, AIDS, and terminal illness. (See more about Elizabeth "Grandma" Layton at .lawrenceartscenter.org.) Contributed by Karen Schueler, LCPC, Manager, Consultation and Education Department. Mail questions to: High Plains Mental Health Center, PLAIN SENSE, Consultation and Education Department, 208 East 7th, Hays, KS 67601 or visit www.highplainsmentalhealth.com. 3/26/07 C 6 None 0 None None Date: 3/23/07
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