Apple’s Journal app, first introduced in iOS 17.2, is designed to encourage users to write journal entries, recording their thoughts and moods. Building on the idea of writing as therapy, the app makes it easy to capture your thoughts, add photos and videos, and build a healthy habit of regular reflection.

With iOS 18, Apple is making Journal even easier to use. If you’ve ever wanted to start a journal but needed a little nudge, Journal is as good a journaling app as any to get you started. Here’s everything you need to know to get started.

Journaling is the essential mindfulness practice that has been linked to several mental health benefits. But developing a habit of regular journaling isn’t always easy.

That’s where Apple’s Journal app comes in. Not only does it make it super easy to get started writing journal entries, but it also helps you create a schedule, lets you add other elements like photos and videos, gives you prompts if you’re not sure what to write about, and provides helpful insights.