A 15-minute writing exercise about personal values produces measurable mental health improvements that grow stronger over time, new research shows. Scientists analyzed over 17,700 people across 129 studies and found participants who wrote about core values or personal strengths showed reduced anxiety and depression, better self-esteem, stronger social connections, and greater life satisfaction. The benefits more than doubled from initial measurements to follow-up assessments weeks later. Researchers published findings showing the simple intervention worked across diverse groups, with adults and college students experiencing stronger effects than adolescents. Researchers emphasize this doesn’t replace professional mental health care but offers an accessible tool for everyday stress management. (Story URL)