By CPN Behavioral Health Department
Citizen Potawatomi Nation Health Services
We’re virtually here to help!
Bozho
(Hello),
That’s write! Journaling is something anyone with a pen or pencil and a piece of paper, a computer, tablet or smartphone can do just about anywhere that can help us get through some of our toughest times. It’s a great way to get out some thoughts, ideas, feelings, recipes or any number of things we want to express. When we pick up a pen and paper (the method I prefer) to put our thoughts where we can see them, it gives us a chance to slow down and examine our experiences from a different place as opposed to racing through our heads.
Right now, many of us are bombarded with worries and concerns – how to get jobs done, increase revenue, stay safe, or keep connections with others we stand to lose. Taking a few minutes to write our concerns can help us take a step back and work to put things into perspective and process the thoughts and feelings we are experiencing that can be so confusing.
If you have trouble getting started, think of a prompt like:
Today, I…
The best part of today was…
The worst part of today was…
I am looking forward to…
I am having trouble with…
I am thankful for… because…
There are apps to help with this, and not just the “notes” button on your phone (although that one works just fine!). Reflectly, Stoic and Jour are a few of the many apps that are available to help you get started.
Of course, you can always check with the Center for Disease Control and Prevention at cdc.gov with questions and helpful information during this time. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is also available at 1-800-273-TALK(8255) or text CONNECT to 741741, or online at suicidepreventionlifeline.org.
Migwetch
(Thank you)!