The healing properties of writing for persons with mental health conditions

Abstract

Background: Research demonstrates the benefits of therapeutic writing yet little is written on the healing properties for those who choose to write outside of a structured setting.

Methods: The present study is the third in a three-phase study designed to explore the healing properties of personal writing. Additional questions included the role of writing in the development of the self, the impact of writing on quality of life, and the interface of writing with self and others. Phenomenological interviews were conducted with 12 people diagnosed with a mental health condition who have engaged in personal writing for a period of three or more years. Transcripts were coded deductively to the research questions and inductively for themes related to the healing properties of writing for those with mental health conditions.

Results: Results demonstrated the importance of writing in perspective taking, enhanced understanding of the self and others, the spiritual nature of writing, and the promotion of health and healing.

Conclusion: There is power in written expression and the personal sharing of one’s story. Writing shows promise not only as a therapeutic tool during intervention, but as an ongoing avocational activity with many personal and health benefits.

Keywords:

• Personal writing
• poetry
• healing
• mental illness

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.