Often, patterns can be ascertained from a written journal that may not be apparent in traditional therapy. My counselor became increasingly frustrated at my inability to communicate clearly or understand myself. At her counselor's prompting, Davis began keeping a journal. She has managed to turn much of her life around and is currently taking classes at ACU through the bachelor of applied studies program. She eventually wants to earn a doctorate in English and teach in a college setting.
Writing is a catharsis.
Vivian Cisneros of Stamford said her journal has helped her during at least two significant and intensely difficult periods of life. It seemed like it helped me keep my sanity. After she recovered, in 1997 her husband came near death. It did not change a single thing, but it helps to put down on paper what is running around in your mind. Dennis Kiker has kept a journal off and on for years in search of the triggers for his bipolar disorder.