Our memories of how we’ve been feeling are often unreliable. You might say, “My sleep is always bad” or “This pain is constant,” when in reality it comes and goes. A simple health diary helps you see patterns instead of relying on vague impressions.
You don’t need fancy apps. A notebook or notes app is enough. Each day, jot down a few basics: roughly how many hours you slept, your energy level, mood, and any pain (where, how strong, how long). Also note key factors like heavy workdays, travel, intense exercise or unusual stress.
Over a couple of weeks, trends appear. Maybe your headaches cluster on days with very little water, or your mood drops after several nights of late sleep. Perhaps back pain flares after long drives or certain workouts.
This information is valuable for you and your doctor. It turns appointments from “I don’t know, it just hurts a lot” into “It hurts like this, on these days, in these situations,” which makes finding solutions easier.
The aim is not obsession. Spend just a minute or two daily. A small, honest record gives you more control and makes you an active partner in your own care.