Resilience is the process of adapting well in the face of adversity, trauma, tragedy, threats or even significant sources of stress - such as family and relationship problems, serious health problems or workplace and financial stressors. It means “Bouncing Back” from difficult experiences.

Research has shown that resilience is ordinary, not extraordinary. People commonly demonstrate resilience.

Being resilient does not mean that a person doesn’t experience difficulty or distress. Emotional pain and sadness are common in people who have suffered adversity or trauma in their lives. In fact, the road to resilience is likely to involve considerable emotional distress.

Resilience is not a trait that people either have or do not have. It involves behaviors, thoughts and actions that can be learned and developed in anyone.

Some Factors In Resilience

A combination of factors contributes to resilience. Many studies show that the primary factor in resilience is having caring and supportive relationships within and outside the family. Relationships that create love and trust, provide role models, offer encouragement and reassurance help bolster a person’s resilience.

Several additional factors are associated with Resilience, including:

• The capacity to make realistic plans
• The capacity to take steps to carry the plans out
• A positive view of yourself
• Confidence in your strengths and abilities
• Skills in communication and problem solving
• The capacity to manage strong feelings and impulses.

All of these are factors that people can develop in themselves. (The Road To Resilience - The American Psychological Association)