Looking for practical ways to boost your mental health and wellbeing as a student? In this episode of Thrive, we explore the powerful connection between writing and emotional resilience with PhD student and Mental Health First Aider Alex Herod, whose research explores how creative writing, (especially in the horror genre!) may support wellbeing.  

Discover how writing can help manage anxiety, build emotional awareness, and foster personal growth—even if you don’t consider yourself a writer. Whether you're navigating university life or simply looking for new self-care strategies, this episode offers expert insights and actionable tips to help you thrive. 

In this episode, you'll learn:

• How journaling and expressive writing can support mental health 
• Grounding and breathing techniques for anxiety and stress 
• The benefits of gratitude and habit-building for emotional resilience 
• Why horror writing can be surprisingly therapeutic 
• How to start writing for wellbeing—no experience needed 

Resources mentioned in this episode

• The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron 

Get in Touch

To provide feedback on what you’ve heard, recommend ideas you’d like to hear in future episodes, or if you’d like to be interviewed, contact us via the form at www.salford.ac.uk/skills/thrive . 

Acknowledgements

This podcast was made with the assistance of Salford Business School. 

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): 

https://uppbeat.io/t/andrey-rossi/seize-the-day 

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