Life review is a therapeutic technique that has been used to assist individuals in overcoming psychological distress and creating meaning in their lives (Jackson & Thorne, 2018). It is a process of reflecting on one’s life, recalling and recounting significant experiences, and revisiting past relationships and decisions (Burke, 2015). Life review is a form of narrative therapy, an approach that focuses on the individual’s stories as a source of healing and growth (Jackson & Thorne, 2018).
The concept of life review was first developed by psychiatrist Robert Butler in the 1970s (Butler, 1975). Butler proposed life review as a way to help individuals find meaning and purpose in their lives, especially those facing the physical and emotional challenges of aging (Butler, 1975). Since then, life review has been used in a variety of contexts, including hospice care, grief counseling, addiction recovery, and mental health treatment (Jackson & Thorne, 2018).
Life review is often viewed as an opportunity for individuals to gain insight into their lives and to make sense of their experiences (Kahn & Friedman, 2015). Through the process of recollecting and reflecting on past events, individuals can gain a greater understanding of their identity, relationships, values, and beliefs (Kahn & Friedman, 2015). This insight can lead to increased self-awareness and a new appreciation for one’s life (Jackson & Thorne, 2018).
Life review also has the potential to reduce stress and anxiety, as it can provide individuals with a sense of closure and a renewed hope for the future (Jackson & Thorne, 2018). By revisiting past experiences, individuals can identify patterns of behavior and make changes that may benefit them in the present. Additionally, the process of retelling one’s story can provide a sense of validation and comfort, which can help individuals cope with difficult emotions and move forward with their lives (Kahn & Friedman, 2015).
Although life review can be a valuable tool for personal growth, it is important to recognize that the process can be emotionally challenging and can evoke strong feelings of nostalgia and regret (Jackson & Thorne, 2018). Individuals may struggle with unresolved issues or may feel overwhelmed by the magnitude of their life experiences. It is important for individuals to recognize that life review is a process, and that it is not necessary to “solve” every issue in order to experience the benefits (Kahn & Friedman, 2015).
In summary, life review is a therapeutic technique that has been used to help individuals make sense of their lives and create meaning. Through the process of reviewing and reflecting on past experiences, individuals can gain greater insight into their identity, relationships, values, and beliefs. Additionally, life review can provide individuals with a sense of closure and renewed hope for the future. Although the process can be emotionally challenging, it can also provide individuals with the opportunity to make changes that may benefit them in the present.
References
Butler, R. N. (1975). Why Survive? Being Old in America. New York, NY: Harper & Row.
Burke, M. (2015). Life review: A therapeutic approach to reminiscence. In M. Marchese (Ed.), Handbook of reminiscence work: Theory and practice (pp. 97-106). New York, NY: Routledge.
Jackson, J. & Thorne, S. (2018). Life review: A narrative approach to reminiscence. In M. Marchese (Ed.), Handbook of reminiscence work: Theory and practice (pp. 85-96). New York, NY: Routledge.
Kahn, B., & Friedman, S. (2015). Life review as a therapeutic tool. Counseling and Psychotherapy Research, 15(3), 203-211.