Resilience

Resilience is defined as the personal qualities that enable one to thrive in the face of adversity (Connor& Davidson, 2003). In life, we all face stressful experiences including the death of a loved one, financial hardship, social rejection, and many others. But we have a surprising amount of variability in how we cope with these experiences. Some of us cope well and may even grow and improve because of stress. Others struggle and may  develop mental health issues in the face of stress. It is thought that resilience is the thing that separates these two paths.  (Berkeley Well-Being Institute)

Like building a muscle, increasing your resilience takes time and intentionality. Focusing the  four-core component of connection, wellness, healthy thinking, and meaning, can empower you to withstand and learn from difficult and traumatic experiences. To increase your capacity for resilience to weather and grow from the difficulties, you can use these strategies outlined by the American Psychological Association . Build Your Resilience

Are you thinking about whether you are resilient or not? Take this brief survey and assess  your resiliency:  How Resilient Are You?

This article describes a number of  single mothers and their challenges during this pandemic, but also focuses on how they cope and gives some tips as to how one can develop more resiliency. The ability to be resilient can be learned and coping with a challenge in a positive way teaches skills that can be used in the future. How single mothers are coping during the pandemic

There is a new page on the Health Department’s “A Way Forward Together” website that is called a “Virtual Calming Room”.  If offers many suggestions and opportunities for building resilience, and has resources for all situations. Virtual Calming Room – A Way Forward (awayforwardtogether.org)

A light-hearted yet honest way to look at mental health challenges via dinosaur cartoons.  Laughter, in whatever context, can be healing. 30 Honest Comics About Mental Health Illustrated With Dinosaurs (New Pics) | Bored Panda