Expressing the Inexpressible: Using Poetry to Cope with Depression

Poetry has long been known as a powerful way to express oneself creatively. But beyond just a form of art, writing poems can also provide an empowering tool for those who may be experiencing depression. This is especially important for Filipino youth, who may be facing unique stressors and challenges in their lives.

According to the World Health Organization's 2017 report, depression affects over 3.3 million people in the Philippines. Unfortunately, cultural and societal stigma surrounding mental health, with some Filipinos viewing depression as a sign of weakness or personal failure, can lead many teens and young adults to feel ashamed or afraid to seek help.

This is where writing poetry can be a valuable outlet for individuals to express their emotions and feelings in a safe and non-judgmental way. In this listicle titled as Expressing the Inexpressible: Using Poetry to Cope with Depression, let's explore five ways writing poetry can help improve mental health for the youth who may be experiencing depression.

1. Writing poems provides an outlet for emotions

For young generations who may feel like they are carrying a heavy burden but are unable to share their feelings with others, writing poetry can be a helpful tool for expressing their untold emotions in a creative and meaningful way. It offers a safe outlet for conveying sadness, anger, frustration, or any other emotions that they struggle to articulate verbally, and can provide a sense of release and relief.

2. Writing poems helps individuals process their feelings

Depression can be overwhelming and complex, making it difficult to comprehend the thoughts and emotions that accompany it. Writing poetry can help Filipino youth process their emotions and gain insight into their mental health. By reflecting on their feelings and writing them down, it can help them comprehend the origins of their emotions and develop a better understanding of their mental conditions.

3. Writing poems offers a sense of control

Writing poetry can provide individuals with a sense of agency and control over their emotions and thoughts, giving them a feeling of empowerment during a time when depression can make them feel powerless. It offers a way to express themselves in a way that feels genuine and meaningful, allowing them to take back control and find clarity in their feelings. By taking ownership of their emotions and thoughts, it can help them feel more in control of their mental health and wellbeing.

4. Writing poems allows for a creative outlet

Writing poetry is a unique and imaginative way for individuals to express themselves creatively. For Filipino youth, it offers a personal outlet to reduce stress and anxiety, which can be symptoms of depression. The act of writing poetry can be a meditative experience, helping them focus on the present moment and let go of worries or stressors.

5. Sharing poetry can connect individuals with others

Sharing poetry can create a sense of belonging and connection with others. It allows individuals to express themselves and their experiences in a way that resonates with others who may be going through the same struggles. This can help to break down feelings of isolation and loneliness, which are common symptoms of depression. Additionally, receiving support from others can boost self-esteem and confidence, which can be important for improving mental health. Overall, sharing poems can be an essential tool for building community and finding support for those struggling with depression.

Encouraging our youth to write poetry can be a tool for improving mental health. It offers a safe way to express emotions, gain insight into one's mental health, and find a sense of control during a series of struggles. As enumerated in this listicle, writing poems can also serve as a creative outlet for reducing stress and anxiety and create connections with others who may be going through same burdens. As such, Filipino youth can find hope and healing through the transformative power of poetry.