3: Make Journaling Positive and Interactive

Journal writing in therapy is a long-established practice. Its value in promoting growth and supporting learning for therapeutic gain has been recognised by psychologists from as early as 1975 (Progoff, 1975). Since then, it has been applied as a therapeutic tool in a multitude of settings where its adaptability has shown it can support different mental health needs, for example alleviating the symptomology of post-traumatic stress disorder or in encouraging health-related behaviour change (Hiemstra, 2001; Haertl, 2008). Journaling within addiction treatment services is no exception. Here, it has been used to encourage self-disclosure, self-expression and connection with the treatment process. The outcome of this research shows it can improve self-awareness, confidence, coping skills and goal attainment whilst reducing depression, anxiety and drinking intentions (Snead et al., 2015).