When we were younger, many of us kept diaries that held our deepest secrets; we felt that we could tell them anything. Though it may seem childish, we could start this routine again and use it to keep track of and control our emotions. 

Mental health is a common struggle among teenagers, and keeping a journal can help! 

According to polaristeen.com, approximately one in five teens suffers from a mental health disorder. Mental health disorders can greatly affect the day to day life of a person and the relationships that they have with other people. 

Mental health is equally as important to physical health, so we need to make sure that we are giving it the attention and care needed to preserve it.

Being able to write down the aspects of your day, the events that annoyed you, or the events that made you happy in a journal is helpful to keep track of your emotions. In general, you are letting your emotions run the paper. It is a very healing process for many. 

According to the University of Rochester Medical Center, “Keeping a journal helps you create order when your world feels like it’s in chaos. You get to know yourself by revealing your most private fears, thoughts, and feelings.”

Sophomore Olivia Soucy said, “Journaling makes you feel like you have gotten all of your feelings out; whether they are good, bad, annoyed, or happy feelings, you get to express them in a healthy way!”

If you want to keep a journal, you will need to set aside a few minutes per day and have a journal handy with a writing utensil nearby. You don’t need to stick to a strict schedule, journal when you see fit.

You can write in your journal or you can even draw in it to express your feelings. Choose a method that is right for you and it will benefit your mental health. 

Journaling can also reduce stress. The few minutes a day that you set aside to journal and focus on yourself are extremely rewarding. It is an escape from all of the built-up tension and stress from the day and a chance to let everything out in an appropriate way. 

I have found journaling to be healing and a big stress reliever. A journal is always there when you feel like you need to rant or let out your pent-up emotions. 

Do you k