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Intense emotional events are not the only ones worth a "Dear Diary" moment. Anything can be put in a diary, no matter how mundane or boring a day is. Interestingly, writing in a diary has several mental health benefits. Here are some of them.

It reduces depression and anxiety symptoms

In 2006, researchers found that writing in a journal could be as effective as CBT or cognitive behavior therapy in reducing the risk of depression in young adults. Another showed that journaling was able to reduce anxiety symptoms in women with multiple sclerosis.  

It helps cultivate gratitude

Writing down what happened in a day can remind a person of what they have that others may not. It helps cultivate a mindset of gratitude, which is associated with reduced levels of depression, improved progress when aligned with goals, and an overall more sociable personality.  

It helps in recovery from trauma

Writing in a diary can help a person recover from a traumatic event more quickly. In a study, researchers found that journaling was able to improve the speed of recovery of participants struggling with psychiatric conditions, characterized by intrusive thoughts. Because journaling helps a person itemize their thoughts, it helps them overcome possible stressors. 

It boosts the immune system

Aside from the mental health benefits of writing in a diary, a bonus is that it boosts a person's immune system. In a study from 2018, researchers found an association between journaling and an improved immune system. Overall, they found that those who wrote in a diary for 20 minutes per day experienced fewer stress-related visits to the doctor. They also saw several physical health enhancements, like improved blood pressure, lung function, liver function and immune system functioning.