The effectiveness of writing emotional disclosure on the reduction of depression, anxiety, and stress among veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder

Emotional disclosure enhances mental health, improve the immune system, and reduce physical problems. The aim of present study was to investigate the effectiveness of emotional disclosure on the reduction of depression, anxiety and stress symptoms among veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In this semi-experimental research, 40 veterans were selected purposefully among who had a high score in the scale of depression, anxiety and stress (DASS). Then they were divided randomly at two groups: writing emotional disclosure group (test group) and control group. For emotional expression, each of these participants were referred to therapist every two weeks (five sessions of 30 minutes per week). Test group was asked to write about the most uncomfortable experiences and events in their lives, while the control group was asked to write about everyday experiences. After completion the sessions post-test was performed for two groups. the Results of independent t-test for differential scores showed that the scores of depression, anxiety, and stress for test group reduced significantly compared to the control group (p<0.001). Emotional disclosure can be considered as a simple, effective, and low cost way in dealing and coping with negative life events by experts.