On Wednesday, April 16th, the Winona State Psychology Club held a workshop to help students organize and process their emotions through journaling.
As attendees poured in, they were greeted with snacks and smiles. The hospitable creed of the psychology club was repeated to all who entered, “Hey, welcome in! Grab a snack, take a seat!” All of these small but welcoming details created the perfect atmosphere for unwinding, unloading, and writing.
Co-president Erin Fraina describes why sharing methods of expression with college students is very important to her.
“There are a lot of emotions people are having right now,” Fraina said. “A lot of people might be feeling scared or unsure about their future, so I think it’s important to give people tools to help deal with the emotions they could be struggling with.”
As mellow music played in the background, the presidents of the psychology club gave an informational presentation describing different methods of journaling and the benefits they have. Caroline Petty, a psychology major with a love for learning more about the mind, was fascinated with the facts.
“I love the science behind journaling. I knew some of the facts, but the ones about the benefits to immune health were really interesting,” Petty said. “I think it’s so fun to have a cute, hands-on craft to do while knowing the benefits of it.”
According to the presentation, a study done by Dr James Pennebaker at the University of Texas found that journaling improves immune function and reduces emotional distress.
Other studies also found that writing helped heal wounds faster and lower blood pressure. The presidents of the club also encouraged a “no-pressure” approach so that students could strive for release rather than perfection.
“Social media makes it seem like your journals have to be cute and aesthetic, but that isn’t the point,” Farina said. “The point is to let it all down and focus on getting it out. Some journals aren’t even meant to be read back.”
Attendees found the activity enjoyable and productive. Student Quinn DeCamillis said she plans to put what she learned from the workshop to good use in the future and appreciated the no boundaries, no rules approach.
“I liked the creativity part of it. It was really do whatever you want, and I love that kind of activity.” DeCamillis said.
Logan Nelson, a student who attended the event with Petty and DeCamillis, said the psychology club wasn’t his usual environment, but he still enjoyed himself a little, nonetheless.
“It was chill, you know, got to hang out for a little bit, write some stuff down. It was pretty relaxing.” Nelson said.
If you’d like to ‘chill’ at the year’s final psychology club event, it will take place on April 30th in the form of an ice cream social. There will be yard games and club elections, among other outdoor activities.
Farina encourages students to try it out. After all, being a part of the psychology club has been a treasured experience for her, and it could be for others students.
“I’ve been attending the psychology club for a few years now. It has always given me a sort of break–it’s on Wednesdays, so it’s a good time for a break in the middle of a busy week,” Farina said. “It is a place where you can come sit with some people who you might share some similar values with. You can put your stress and schoolwork aside and come do a nice, light-hearted activity.”
