Speaking of Psychology Expressive writing can help your mental health, with James Pennebaker, PhD
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Mar 13, 2024 
Discover how expressive writing can enhance mental health as Dr. Pennebaker discusses its therapeutic origins. Explore gender differences in language use and how social media analysis can reflect psychological insights. Learn about emotional impacts of significant life events and how politicians' word use reveals personality traits.
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Secret Keeping Harms Health
- Traumatic experiences kept secret are more harmful than those disclosed.
- Secrets themselves can be toxic to mental and physical health.
First Expressive Writing Study
- Pennebaker's initial expressive writing study involved college students writing about traumas or superficial topics.
- The trauma writing group had significantly fewer student health center visits.
Writing as a Tool
- Expressive writing can be a helpful tool for mental health, but it doesn't replace therapy.
- Consider writing as an "antibiotic" for emotional distress, used as needed.