How Writing Helps Me Process 'Big Emotions'

Writing is, more often than not, a reflection of the self. We use it to cope with, project, and better understand our feelings. You could call it a form of therapy.

I started writing when I was 13, but never understood it as an outlet. Now I can confidently say, writing helps me process all my 'big feelings'. It's a way for me to breathe.

Photo by Alexander Mass: https://www.pexels.com/photo/close-up-of-a-couples-hands-26795650/

The beautiful thing about writing is that there is no time limit, and there are no boundaries. I never have to rush to write (unless it's for social media). Writing always gives me adequate time to process what I want to write, and to write it unfiltered.

Poetry is one of my favorite forms to write for emotional relief. Metaphors help me describe what I don't usually have words for. Poetry allows the use of literary tools to express emotion in a way that does not expressly speak it out loud. It's cheeky, but it works.

Characters in fiction also hold a place in my heart and give rise to inner thoughts and emotions. They're allowed to say the things I can't. As a writer, I try to let them experience everything I can't. That's why fiction exists: to go outside the boundaries. It is a safe place to study emotion in an action vs. reaction setting.

With all this being said, writing does not fix everything. That'd be way too easy. I think everyone needs to talk it out, move, cry, or rest. Or all three. Writing IS, however, an essential part of my toolkit.

Photo by Vie Studio: https://www.pexels.com/photo/label-cut-out-papers-on-the-cardboard-7004950/

Hopefully, writing can also be a tool for you to express the 'big emotions' in a healthy way. Try it out, and let me know how it goes! If not, reach out to someone you trust. Ask for help. The world is crazy right now, and I think it's the perfect time to seek assistance.

As always, thank you for reading, and have an amazing Saturday <3 Happy Writing!