Well, when I have a problem that I want to "work off" -- that usually involved very physical work -- something strenuous which gives my brain a chance to release those physical-exercise-connection chemicals that help calm me, etc.
If it is an emotional stress, writing can help just by being a vent. If I CHOOSE to write, I don't consider it "work". However, when I used to be a journalist, writing definately became "work" for me --- and I would often have to go do that physical-activity (note in above paragraph) just to get the writing juices going.