Writing and the Mitogen Response
In order to find the health implications of any treatment, one needs to do research. Luckily, there is plenty of good science and research out there. In the coming paragraphs I will present research which proposes that one can achieve greater health by written expression of ones deepest, traumatic feelings. First let us take a look at microbiology by explaining Mitosis. Mitosis is the process by which the body grows and replaces cells. And without going into too much detail, this process is divided into four phases. 1. Prophase, 2. Metaphase, 3. Anaphase, and 4. Telophase. How exactly does this process of cell division relate to writing about traumatic life events and health? I am glad you asked.
In a randomized, placebo controlled study with two groups (n=50), one half of participants were instructed to write about traumatic life events (experimental group), the other group (control group) was instructed to write about trivial events, such as describing items of clothing etc., for 20 minutes a day for 4 days. Members of the experimental group were instructed to write about the deepest feelings they harbored and something they did not shared with anyone.
Blood samples were taken three times from both groups.
1. the day before writing,
2. the last day of writing, and
3. six weeks after the writing.
The experimental group showed a drastically higher responses in cell stimulation (mitogen response).This means, they showed a greater ability to reproduce cells when needed, as compared to their base levels and the control group. Again, the experimental group showed less health center visits then pre-writing, and as compared to the control group.(1)
This leaves the question: Is writing considered to be the best method in releasing repressed feelings and achieving optimum health? There are others who suggest that orally expressed feelings are more effective in strengthening immunity and restoring health. One thing is for certain, and is clearly shown by research, that in order to maintain and or achieve a healthy you after traumatic life events "bottling" up ones feelings is the worst a person can do. A comparative study between orally and written expression is next.
Beste Gesundheit,
Werner
1. Pennebaker J., Kiecolt-Glaser J., Glaser R. Disclosure of Trauma and Immune Function: Health Implications for Psychotherapy. J Consult Clin Psychol 56 (1998):239