Write it Out - Expressive Writing

Many people with persistent pain and worry carry unspoken stories—loops of fear, frustration and loss. Expressive writing gives those stories a safe outlet. In this short, evidence-informed video (≈7 minutes), I explain how a brief, structured writing practice can reduce the “threat” signal in the nervous system, ease pain-related distress, and lower anxiety for some people. The presentation is based on clinical literature and on spine surgeon Dr David Hanscom’s programme from Back in Control: A Surgeon’s Roadmap Out of Chronic Pain, and it’s simple to try at home. (Buy the book on Amazon)

What you’ll get:

• What expressive writing is—and why it helps the brain reframe threat.

• A clear “how-to” you can start today (paper and pen; no perfect grammar needed).

• Safety notes and next steps if strong emotions arise.

Watch the video, try the exercise for a few days, and observe—gently—what shifts.

Sources & confidence: moderate evidence base for modest benefits in pain-related interference and anxiety (expressive-writing research; Hanscom’s protocol). Confidence: High for safety and correct method; Moderate for individual symptom improvement (responses vary).