Being resilient generally means that you’re able to adapt to hard times, to challenges, and to other sorts of adversity in life. It means that although you encounter stress, trauma or tragedy, you are able to cope with adversity and keep functioning, both psychologically and physically.
When you have resilience, you’re able to tap into your inner strengths and rebound more quickly from a setback or challenge, whether it’s a job loss, an illness, a disaster, a tragedy, family or relationship problems, workplace and financial stressors, or the death of a loved one.
In contrast, if you lack resilience, you’re more likely to dwell on problems, feel victimized, become overwhelmed, and turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms such as substance abuse. You may even be more inclined to develop mental health problems.
What resilience is not
Resilience is not about toughing it out or living by old clichés such as
“Just grin and bear it.” It doesn’t mean that you ignore or bury your feelings beneath outward “strength.” In fact, emotional pain, sadness and stress are common in people who have suffered significant adversity or trauma in their lives yet have rebounded in time.
When you’re resilient and adversity strikes, you still experience anger, grief and pain, but you’re often able to go on with daily tasks, remain generally optimistic, and go on with your life. Being resilient also doesn’t mean being stoic or going it alone. In fact, being able to reach out to others for support is a key component of being resilient.
Does being resilient mean that you’ll have fewer problems?
No, being resilient doesn’t mean that your life is problem-free. But resilience can give you the ability to see past your problems, handle stress better, cope with the ups and downs, and find enjoyment in life.
Are people born resilient?
While some people seem to be able to bounce back from problems without expending a great deal of effort, the vast majority of people must draw upon their array of coping skills and help from others in order to deal with the challenging setbacks that life can hand out. It’s not often easy!
Fortunately, you can develop skills to become more resilient.
What does resilience have to do with mental health?
Resilience can help protect you from mental health problems such as depression and anxiety. It can also help offset factors that put you at risk of mental illness, such as a lack of social support, being bullied, or
having experienced trauma in the past. Also, being resilient can help you cope better with an existing mental illness.
Your program is here to help you along the journey of life. No situation is too big or too small. When you and your family members need assistance, reach out anytime and we will help get you on the right path to meet your needs.
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