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.
Get Support
Supporting youth in areas of leadership and community engagement among many other, the Xperience Annex collaborates with education, employment and healthcare providers to help you achieve your goals. They provide a safe, confidential space where you can seek guidance on stress and time management, problem-solving and self-esteem building.
You can connect with the Xperience Annex both virtually and in person at the Hamilton Central Library.
FAB Foundation aims to eliminate the barriers that young women face by providing girls from grades 6 – 12 with the goal-setting and leadership skills they need to lead empowered lives. With a focus on reaching girls in Hamilton’s low-income communities, FAB fosters resilience through its 5k run challenge and empowerment programs.
The Youth Resource Centre from Living Rock Ministries is a space for those aged 13-25 facing challenges like family loss, poverty and substance abuse to access opportunities for personal development and resources to lead resilient lives. Services include:
- Hamilton’s only youth food bank
- Grocery delivery and wellness checks
- Youth laundry room
- Access to hygiene products
- Computer and wifi access
