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How to start a journal for your mental health:
There are no rules to creating a mental health journal. Journaling is just for you. You can get a simple, lined journal or notebook and use journal prompts, like the ones listed below, to help you on your way to bettering your mental well-being, self-discovery and so much more.
Benefits of mental health journaling:
Some benefits of using journal prompts for mental health include:
-Can reduce stress
-Boost your mood
-Regulate your mind and moods
-Provide deeper insight into your thoughts and feelings
-Help release built up tension and emotion
-Boost creativity & stimulates your brain
Keep these tips in mind before you start journaling for your mental health:
-there are no “rules”
-let go of judgment
-start small & simple
-be mindful and present while you journal
-be honest with yourself
Journal Prompts for Mental health:
1.What is one thing you are holding onto that you need to forgive yourself for?
Write yourself a letter of forgiveness and let go of any guilt you are holding on to.
We are taught to forgive others, but that should also extend to ourselves.
2. Make a list of everything that is worrying you right now. Go back through the list and rate how much these worries will matter in a year.
3. Write about a time you achieved something, despite your anxiety.
4. Make a list of all the things that make you happy and grateful. (No matter how simple or small) and brainstorm how you can incorporate more of these into your life.
5. Write about your ideal life. What actions can you take to bring yourself closer to this reality.
6. What are your strengths and talents? How can you use these talents to improve your life/mental health?
7. Write about anything that is bothering you right now. Can you change it? If so, how? If not, how can you work towards accepting it and moving forward.
8. Write about all the positive things in your life and what you love about them.
9. If a friend was experiencing the feelings you are now, and they asked you for help, what advice would you give them?
Short and Simple Mental Health Journaling Prompt Ideas:
10. Create a list of all the simple things that bring you joy.
11. What are some negative things you give too much energy to in your life?
12. Write out an ideal routine that would help you relax and unwind.
13. What are 5 things you need to let go of and why?
14. What are 5 things that make you feel loved?
15. Make a list of what affirmations/statements you need to hear right now?
- (Eg. Struggling with your body image? -try these affirmations :
- “I am perfectly made, just the way I was meant to be.”
- “I am grateful for all that my body does for me on a daily basis.”
- “My body is my home and it deserves love and respect.”
Mental Health Journal Prompts for Self-Discovery/ Acceptance
16. What am I most proud of myself for and why?
17. What do I love about myself?
18. What would past me think of my current self?
19. What advice would I give my past self, knowing what I know now?
20. What things do I choose to accept myself for?
21. What can I do to take better care of myself?
22. What is one thing that is holding me back?
23. What is my ideal self? Describe how this “person” acts, thinks etc. How can I get closer to this version of me?
Journal Prompts for Stress and Anxiety
24. List 5 things you are grateful for today
25. What are 5 things that make me happy?
26. What are 3 things that make me feel calm and peaceful?
27. Write down all the things that are holding you back from being your best self? List the reasons why you’re holding onto them.
28. Write down 3 inspiring quotes that make you feel empowered and motivated.
Final Thoughts
I hope you found these journal prompts helpful and inspiring. Remember there are no rules when it comes to journaling for your mental health!
Comment and let us know what your favourite journal prompt is or share any other journal prompts you think would be helpful to others!
“You cannot be lonely if you like the person you’re alone with.”
Wayne Dyer
Related posts to check out for more inspiration and ideas:
Inspirational Self-Love Quotes
Affirmations for Confidence and Self-Esteem
60 Powerful Positive Affirmations For Your Self-Love Journey
Great content! Keep up the good work!