Sometimes we feel more than what we let out into the world, and writing therapy gives us an opportunity to explore it through pen and paper. Even on a more personal level, writing can help alleviate a lot of stress – a 2016 study published in the journal Computers in Human Behavior found that even writing expressively through Facebook and using various social networking activities online can help alleviate symptoms of depression. Those in addiction recovery may find that writing therapy can open many gates to thoughts and emotions they’ve suppressed over the years, but what happens when that gate just doesn’t seem to open? Let’s take a look at some of the most common problems experienced with writing therapy:
Writer’s Block
It can be the most stressful experience to feel “blocked” in writing – you want to start working through some of the deep-rooted issues you’ve been having, but there seems to be nothing there. In 2016, the New Yorker described this phenomenon as being, “…actually blocked psychologically – and the way to ‘unblock’ that writer is through therapy.”
Speak with your therapist about what you’re personally going through so that you can start working on the psychological barriers that are holding you back from being able to write it down.
Lack of Motivation
Not everyone can understand why writing therapy would be beneficial, especially for those who don’t like to write. However, if you can, give it a try – and if you keep trying and it’s still not helping you in any way, speak with your therapist about the barriers that are holding you back from wanting to move forward with this exercise. You may find underlying reasons why you don’t want to write – and if you don’t, then you may be able to try a different tactic in therapy.
Uncertainty
Francesa Baker, writer for Recovery Warriors, stated in 2015, “Getting in touch with yourself and your feelings is essential to recovery, and the journal is a safe space in which to do that.”
There is no right or wrong way to write. Release any expectations that you have for yourself in writing, and just let it flow. This is where people often find the greatest benefit.
Avalon Malibu is a world-renowned, California state-licensed mental health and substance abuse recovery center. If you are ready to seek treatment to develop the tools you need to overcome life’s obstacles and be on the road towards happiness, health, and well-being, call us today at 888-958-7511 for a consultation. It’s never too late, and there are people here ready to help you.
