Whether you love them or hate them, your story may be
the inspiration that keeps a fellow widow/er sane or gives them the momentum they so desperately need to get through the day. And on a personal note, it’ll make me feel better knowing I’m not the only one dating Ben and Jerry every night on the sofa.

On another note, Psychologist James W. Pennebaker, in his book Writing to Heal, cites studies that show that people who wrote about traumatic events, and wrote regularly, made 43% fewer doctor visits and exhibited better health than those who did not. He began studies in the 1980s. Pennebaker’s research was funded by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute of Mental Health. When writing, heart rates slowed, blood pressure dropped and immune systems strengthened.

Right after writing about traumatic events some people feel sad. But long-term, regular writers develop optimism and a general sense of well-being.