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.
How the Mind and Body Communicate (part XVII)
Effects of Writing on Illness Vulnerability
There is mounting evidence that extremely upsetting life events which are not expressed, could lead to related disease processes and a heightened probability to illness.(1) Other research looked at the probability to determine if written expression of feelings could be beneficial to subjects. The reasoning goes that some people might not be willing to express themselves verbally about a traumatic event, like in a traditional group support. If written expression could be effective, a pretty sizable amount of individuals might be able to benefit from this research.(2)