Content medically reviewed by Vicky Magobet, PMHNP-BC, on May 10, 2021.
When you think of journaling, what image comes to mind first? Do you picture a young girl jotting down her thoughts in a diary? Or do you think of someone who recounts their day in a book? Journaling can be so much more than a retelling of your day or a place to dish gossip about your friends. Journaling can help you heal.
As life gets busy, it can be tough to keep up with your journaling. Trying different types of journaling practices and lining up a few sobriety journal prompts can help you stay on track.
There are several benefits to journaling during your recovery. You may find that you need a personal, private space for reflecting, venting or celebrating. A journal can provide that space and let you be your complete, whole self.
Recovery journaling can help you remind yourself of where you've been and where you're headed, especially on tough days. You'll be able to track cravings and effective coping strategies. You may also find journaling to be therapeutic in terms of reducing stress, solving problems and processing emotions.
You can choose from several different types of recovery journaling, switching between approaches based on how you're feeling in the moment or what you're trying to work through. Try these strategies:
If you can keep up a daily practice, recovery journaling can be significantly helpful. But any time you journal, you'll get some benefit.
In addition to trying different journaling methods, you can line up a few prompts to use for inspiration. Try writing a few of these entries:
If you or a loved one is struggling with substance use, you don't have to walk alone. At Diamond House Detox, we offer evidence-based treatment and individualized care. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help.