IS Writing helpful for mental health?

I've been busy. 

Networking with people about mental health,  looking for local gatherings where I can learn more about recovering from mental illness and possible avenues to contribute for the eventual publishing of my book.  It's early days but I'm so happy to be at this stage after spending so long writing the 'damn thing'.

I have been asked by the Taylor and Francis Psychosis Journal to write a 3500 word first person account of my experiences, focussing on how I became unwell (psychotic) and things that hindered or helped my recovery.  I've done 1400 words today and it's flowing nicely. 

I never find it difficult to begin writing something, I can usually find the words.  It is so often felt that mental illness isn't talked about enough because of the stigma etc. and that it can be embarrassing.  I always want to add to that and say it is also because the words are just so hard to find!  I have found again and again that the reason I can talk about it so much is because I have written my story and I can find all the words. 

I have also learned not to be embarrassed, and talking is very very helpful.  I sometimes have to stop myself talking about it - it fascinates me, but most people are simply not as interested in my journey through mental health as I am!