Journaling, note-taking, working on that long-overdue memoir … whatever the form, writing is a wonderful way to take stock of one’s life. National Life Writing Month, which takes place every November, is the perfect time to do just that – tell your story and share all the big and small moments that make you, you.
“Writing is a process, a journey into memory and the soul.”
– Isabel Allende
When life feels overwhelming, anxieties are running rampant, and stress levels are at all-time highs, it’s easy to feel like our stories don’t matter, that we are just another cog in a nameless, ever-spinning wheel. Depression can be just as confusing and isolating, making it hard to recognize when support is needed most. Worse, it can deceive our inner Selves, spreading the silent lie that no one cares what we have to say.
At Mindful Health Solutions, we are here to tell you – your story matters. And there’s no better time than right now to make it heard. From personal anecdotes to family traditions, milestone events to silly inside jokes amongst friends, these are the moments worth sharing. During the rest of November and beyond, we encourage you to take that journey into memory and soul, reflecting on life and the legacy you want to leave behind.
Think You’re Not a Writer? Think Again!
Finding the right medication for depression can be a time-consuming and frustrating process. But for tYou don’t have to be a best-seller to enjoy National Life Writing Month. All you need is the drive to get the words out of your head and committed to paper. Check out some tips below on how to get those creative juices flowing.
Don’t Overthink
National Life Writing Month should be therapeutic, not work. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself to be perfect. Instead, take a deep breath, relax your body, and let the memories come to you.
Start Wherever Feels Right
Who says you have to write in order? Whether it’s ten years in the past, goals for the future, or experiences in this very moment, your story is yours to tell in the order of your choosing.
Find Physical Reminders
Filtering through our mind’s memories can be both fun and challenging. Take a break from the mental process and spend time looking through the physical reminders of life – old photographs, videos taken with friends and family, snail-mail letters. These are a great way to add even more value and emotion to your story.
Ignore the Noise
Loud neighbors, rowdy kids, blaring televisions, and even that voice in your head casting doubt, it’s all noise to be tuned out. Find the writing place that suits your style and get lost in the words. Maybe it’s a popular coffee shop, or beneath a tree at the park. Or perhaps you feel most creative at home, surrounded by family and pets. There’s no right or wrong place to let your inner voice start talking.
Embrace the Imperfections
In the beginning, don’t worry about having perfect grammar or syntax. Get the thoughts out and handle the fine tuning later. That’s what editing is for!
Have Fun
Most importantly, have fun with your story! Remember, this is all about your life and no one else’s. Even if your words are only read by you and no one else, make sure you’re enjoying the process.
We Want to Hear Your Story
Sometimes, it’s hard to see our worth through the fog of depression. When expressing ourselves in words isn’t enough, it can be helpful to share our thoughts with professionals able to guide us through the maze of self-doubt and hopelessness.
At Mindful Health Solutions, we’ve helped thousands of patients heal. Our team of compassionate practitioners is committed to listening to your history, reviewing symptoms, concerns, and anything else you feel is important for them to know in order to advocate for your health.
Through innovative treatments like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Spravato (Esketamine), and Ketamine Infusion Therapy, we take a collaborative approach that guides you on the path to happiness. Reach out today to discuss a customized treatment plan that helps you find relief in the way that best feels like “you.”
