My One Simple Step for Mental Wellness

Mental health is an essential aspect of our overall wellness, impacting every facet of our lives. Having gone through years of therapy and recently completing the Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy program, I have arrived at a profound realization – the key to mental health and wellness can be encapsulated in a single word: “expression.” Expressing our emotions, thoughts, and experiences is a fundamental component of maintaining good mental health. Through expression, whether it be through talking, writing, art, or other forms of creative outlets, we can process and release pent-up emotions, confront past traumas, and foster a deeper understanding of ourselves. This process of expression can lead to healing and a sense of empowerment, enabling us to navigate life’s challenges with greater resilience and clarity.

Verbal Expression:

While some of us may find it challenging to talk about our feelings or avoid certain topics altogether (that was me), effective communication is one of the most potent ways to sustain good mental health. Sharing your thoughts and emotions with a trusted friend, family member, or therapist can provide significant relief and support. By expressing your emotions and challenges verbally, you can attain clarity, perspective, and validation. Speaking about your feelings helps release pent-up emotions and prevents them from accumulating inside you. It also contributes to building stronger relationships and fostering a sense of connection with others. 

Expression through Writing:

Journaling, as well as poetry, is another powerful tool for expressing and processing your thoughts and emotions. Writing down your feelings, experiences, and reflections can help you gain insights into your inner world. Journaling provides a safe space for you to unload your thoughts, fears, and frustrations without judgment. It can be a therapeutic practice that helps you identify patterns, triggers, and sources of stress. Regular journaling can also help track your progress, growth, and areas that need attention in your mental health journey.

Expression through Art:

Art is a creative outlet that can help you express complex emotions and experiences that are difficult to articulate with words. Engaging in art forms such as painting, drawing, music, dance, or crafting allows you to tap into your subconscious and channel your feelings into tangible expressions. Art therapy is a recognized form of psychotherapy that uses art-making as a means to explore emotions, reduce anxiety, and enhance self-awareness. Through art, you can externalize your inner struggles and find solace in the process of creation.

Expression through Movement and Dance:

Certain therapeutic approaches utilize movement and dance as a means for you to express and release emotions, as well as reduce bodily tension. These movement-based therapies not only help you establish a deeper connection with your bodies but also enable you to explore and address suppressed emotions that may be affecting your overall well-being.

Expression through Music and Song:

Music therapy is a form of therapy that utilizes the listening to or creating of music and singing as a powerful tool for expression and healing. This therapeutic approach recognizes the ability of music to evoke deep emotions, trigger memories, and facilitate the exploration and processing of feelings within a therapeutic setting. Through music and song, you can engage in a unique and profound form of self-expression, which can be particularly beneficial for those who may struggle with traditional talk therapy.

Expression through Drama:

Through drama therapy, you can engage in activities such as role-playing, storytelling, and improvisation to creatively and interactively explore challenges and emotions. This form of therapy can be especially beneficial for those who find it difficult to express themselves verbally in traditional ways.

Expression through Community:

Being part of a supportive community is essential for maintaining good mental health. Finding a group of like-minded individuals who share common interests, values, or struggles can provide a sense of belonging and understanding. A supportive community offers companionship, empathy, and encouragement, which are crucial for navigating life’s challenges. Whether it is an in-person support group, an online forum, or a social club, connecting with others can combat isolation, reduce stigma, and create a network of support that can positively impact mental well-being. Through shared experiences and a sense of belonging, you can find solace and strength in knowing that you are not alone in your struggles.

In summary, the crucial element for preserving good mental health can be summed up in a single word: “expression.” By embracing various forms of expression, you can process and release pent-up emotions, confront past traumas, and develop a deeper understanding of yourself. This process can lead to healing and a sense of empowerment, enabling you to navigate life’s challenges with greater resilience and clarity.