There are many benefits to journaling for grief. Research shows that journaling can improve your physical and emotional health, and that bereaved people who respond to directed writing prompts have fewer depressive and post-traumatic stress symptoms. There are many benefits to starting a grief journal:

1. Untangle and process your emotions in a private, judgement-free space.
2. Reveal patterns and insights through regular reflection.
3. Acknowledge what you learn about yourself and your loved one.
4. Record precious memories and even frustrations about your loved one.
5. Make to-do lists (this actually helps you sleep!).

The first step is to decide what type of journaling you want to do. The lessons that follow will show you how to choose, and explain the best practices so you can take advantage of this transformational practice.