Anyone interested in easy-to-use, science-based self-help strategies for enhancing health and well-being; also of interest to students and practitioners in psychology and other helping professions.

James W. Pennebaker, PhD, the originator of expressive writing, is Regents Centennial Professor of Psychology at the University of Texas at Austin. Dr. Pennebaker conducts award-winning research and has published numerous books on the links between expressive writing and physical and mental health.

Joshua M. Smyth, PhD, is Ohio Eminent Scholar in Health Psychology at The Ohio State University. Dr. Smyth has conducted extensive research on expressive writing and other innovative methods for promoting health and well-being and coping with stress.

Introduction 1. "Shh … It's a Secret": Beginning to Explore the Connection between Confession and Health 2. The Invention of the Expressive Writing Approach 3. What's on Your Mind?: Health Benefits of Verbal and Written Disclosure 4. Dealing with Chronic Health Problems Using Expressive Writing 5. Writing to Clear the Mind: Expressive Writing in Learning and Education 6. "Get These Thoughts Out of My Head!": Getting Past Obsessions, Insomnia, and Bouts of Stupidity 7. To Speed Up or Slow Down?: How People Differ in Coping with Trauma 8. "I'm Here for You … or Am I?": The Audience on the Other End of Our Words 9. How Does Writing Help Us Secure a Healthier and Happier Future? 10. Pulling It All Together: Recommendations for Your Use of Expressive Writing Notes Bibliography