Strength Resilience

Written by John Potter

Life is full of peaks and valleys. The good times are really great. But, the bad times have the ability to devastate. Some people seem to roll with the punches, so to speak. Bad things happen; they mourn and do what they can to make the situation more tolerable; then, they move on, and hope for a better day tomorrow. Conversely, others seem to fall apart and not have the ability to put themselves back together. For these individuals, learning to deal with the negative aspects of life is essential. Mental health and resilience go hand-in-hand.

To better understand the concept of resilience, Mayo Clinic describes it this way: Resilience isn't about toughing it out or living by old clichés, such as "grin and bear it." It doesn't mean you ignore your feelings. When adversity strikes, you still experience anger, grief and pain, but you're 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.

Without resilience, mental health is at risk. People unable to express their feelings and still manage to keep moving forward are susceptible to clinical depression and more. But, how do individuals get up in the morning, and go about their day, even when the world seems to be falling apart?

Tips for Mental Health

Individuals are becoming more aware of their bodies, and making the effort to eat healthier and exercise, in order to keep the physically fit. But, not many people think about making the effort to stay mentally healthy. So, when bad things happen, they have not developed the strength to cope. So, here are some ideas to help strengthen resilience for when life hits those inevitable bumps or boulders.

Stay Involved

Make the effort to develop strong relationships with friends and family. During those rough spots in life, a support system is a life saver. Also, think about others. Volunteer at the soup kitchen, the homeless shelter, a child’s school. Go to church, and develop positive health relationships and activities. When people are busy helping and thinking about others, it is easier to forget personal problems for a minute, and get up in the mornings.

Find Purpose

Even after the loss of a loved one, or some other devastating experience, it will be a lot easier to be resilient, if there is a purpose for getting up in the morning. Discovering ways to help other less fortunate is one idea. For those that enjoy writing, penning experiences give purpose and are often cathartic. Many people have authored books to help others undergoing similar circumstances.

Laugh

Some people actually feel guilty, if they enjoy some aspects of life, even after the loss of a loved one. Be honest. Loved ones usually do not want people to stop living when they are gone. Laugh once in a while. If laughs are hard to come by, read a funny book, or watch a comedy movie. It is okay to smile again.

Consider the Past

Think back to previous experiences. What skills were used to cope with sad or difficult circumstances? What worked well; what did not? Use the memories and information learned to get through the current situation. Experiences of the past often help people find the strength for future struggles.

Maintain Hope

Do not give up hope for the future. Strive to think of something positive about each day. Some people opt to think of 10 blessings, before starting each day. The list does not have to be anything profound. The sun is shining; the rain is helping the grass grow; the house is a home, etc. At first, it may be a difficult exercise; but, odds are it will get easier and pleasant over time.

Self-Care

Regardless of the circumstances, get up in the morning. Shower, brush teeth, get dressed, eat healthy, etc. Participate in life. Work on hobbies or exercise. Go through the motions, if necessary. Make sure to get enough sleep, but do not stay in bed all day. Someday, the process will be easier, because resilience is being exercised.

For anyone living long enough, sadness and mourning is a part of life. No one can possibly be happy all of the time. But, when bad things happen, some people get up in the morning and put one foot in front of the other, until things get better or the pain is not so sharp. Conversely, others cannot seem to get out of bed, and wonder why life should go forward. What creates good mental health and r esilience in some individuals, while others sink into clinical depression?

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