Resilience is an important aspect of mental well-being.
The development of resilience occurs at three levels: individual, family and environmental.
Bouncing back from today’s stresses is one of the best life skills children and youth can develop. CAMH’s publication, Growing Up Resilient, is a must-read for adults who want to increase resilience in the children and youth in their lives. Learn more.
According to Psychology Today; Resilience is the psychological quality that allows some people to be knocked down by the adversities of life and come back at least as strong as before. Rather than letting difficulties, traumatic events, or failure overcome them and drain their resolve, highly resilient people find a way to change course, emotionally heal, and continue moving toward their goals.
Can resilience be taught?
Many factors that determine resilience—such as genetics, early life experiences, and luck—can’t be modified. But specific resilience-building skills can be learned. These include breaking out of negative thought cycles, pushing back against catastrophizing, and looking for upsides when faced with setbacks.
What are strategies for becoming more resilient?
Healthy habits—getting enough sleep, eating well, and exercising—can reduce stress, which may, in turn, boost resilience. Similarly, being sure to nurture close relationships can help an individual find support when trouble arises. Regularly thinking about morals and actively living according to one’s values have been linked to higher resilience.
