Sigmund Freud used the term talking cure to describe the process by which individuals freed themselves from painful psychological and related physical symptoms by communicating—talking with someone—about their memories, thoughts, feelings etc. Putting one’s feelings and ideas into words and coherent sentences helps us to organize and untangle our thinking. It can also help to suggest possible courses of actions, ways to be less bogged down by worry, or even solutions. Decades of research since Freud’s time have shown us that writing about our problems can also help us feel better and overcome worries and challenges. An important researcher and writer in this area is James Pennebaker at the University of Texas (Austin). You can read an interesting article about how writing for 20 minutes over a few days can help you understand and work with a stressful situation. Writing in this way even appears to help with your physical health.
While it may not be for everyone, keeping a journal is an excellent way to engage in this healthy practice. Today, we have so many means open to us for writing, whether using a smartphone, tablet, e-mail or good old-fashioned pen and paper.