Both people with cancer and their loved ones find themselves in a time of deep reflection, a time for peacemaking, and a time to express fears, hopes, and dreams. Simply writing about feelings and perceptions can help both patients and their loved ones attain a sense of perspective and inner peace.
Research has also clearly demonstrated that—in addition to helping patients feel better—writing about their thoughts, feelings, fears, and impressions about their illness can have meaningful physical health benefits as well. Patients and caregivers alike are encouraged to explore writing a journal.
Journaling is a very private experience. For many people, their journal becomes a haven, or a refuge; the one place where they feel it is completely safe to express whatever they are feeling, without fear or censorship. There are no rules except to let your thoughts and feelings flow without editing or worrying about the rules of formal writing. Think of journaling as sharing your feelings with your dearest friend who will never judge you and never think less of you, regardless of what you express.
Organize your journal in any way that works for you. Some people write daily—others only when they feel the need to express themselves. It is very helpful to keep a journal of all doctor visits, tests, and results, either with or separate from your main journal. This is also a good place to jot down any thoughts or questions that come to mind about any aspect of your illness or treatment.
Some people like to divide their journal into sections that range from "Feelings" to "Family Memories" to "My Favorite Things" to "Sources of Inspiration" and so on. Your journal can become an important resource for empowerment and inspiration. It can also become a treasured memoir of your cancer journey, which you might wish to share with family or friends. Regardless, it can very liberating and therapeutic just to honor your humanity and "get your feelings out." For many people, writing in their journal becomes a source of great comfort, insight, inspiration, and healing.