Expressive Writing for Emotional Well-Being
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores how expressive writing can improve emotional well-being in young adults. Participants will write about their deepest thoughts and feelings related to emotional events, either for themselves or for someone they feel close to. A control group will write factually about their daily routine, known as Factual Writing. The study seeks individuals in the U.S. who are fluent in English and have mild symptoms of anxiety or depression. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to research that could enhance strategies for emotional health.
Do I need to stop my current medications for the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems likely that you can continue your medications, but it's best to confirm with the study organizers.
What prior data suggests that expressive writing interventions are safe for young adults?
Research has shown that writing about thoughts and feelings can improve both mental and physical health. Some studies suggest that people feel better after writing about emotional or stressful experiences. This type of writing often helps with conditions like PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), where it can aid in symptom management.
However, expressive writing might not work for everyone. One study found that people who usually keep their emotions to themselves might not benefit as much or could even feel worse. Still, for many, writing about personal thoughts and feelings can be a safe and helpful way to manage emotions.
Overall, expressive writing is considered safe for most people. It doesn't involve taking medicine or undergoing medical procedures, so the risk of side effects remains very low.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the expressive writing approaches because they offer a novel, low-cost way to boost emotional well-being without medication. Unlike traditional therapies that might involve talk therapy or pharmaceuticals, these writing techniques encourage individuals to process emotions through writing, which can be done independently. The 'Self' group writes as if speaking to themselves, fostering self-reflection, while the 'Other' group writes as if communicating with someone close, enhancing interpersonal understanding. Additionally, these methods are accessible to almost anyone and can be practiced anywhere, providing a flexible alternative to traditional mental health treatments.
What evidence suggests that this trial's expressive writing interventions could be effective for emotional well-being?
This trial will compare different approaches to expressive writing for emotional well-being. Research has shown that writing about thoughts and feelings can improve both physical and mental health. Writing about stressful or emotional experiences is linked to better emotional well-being and reduced stress. Some studies suggest that this kind of writing might also aid in growth and healing after serious health challenges. However, the benefits can vary based on the writing method and an individual's ability to process emotions. While results are mixed, many find that expressive writing helps manage feelings and improve overall mental health. Participants in this trial will be assigned to different writing approaches, such as writing to themselves, writing to someone they feel close to, or writing a factual description of their routine.14678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Erik Nook, PhD
Principal Investigator
Princeton University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for US-based, English-speaking young adults experiencing mild symptoms of depression or anxiety. Participants must have a certain score on mental health questionnaires to join. They can't take part if they don't write for at least 15 minutes daily or miss three days in a row.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants carry out an expressive writing exercise for 14 consecutive days
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Expressive Writing: Other
- Expressive Writing: Self
- Factual Writing
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Trustees of Princeton University
Lead Sponsor