Build Skills of Resilience With Six Key Steps March 14, 2024 Overcoming adverse events, whether physical or emotional, is not always easy. But we can improve our ability to withstand life’s stressors. Resilience is the measure of our ability to cope with difficult things. An accident or illness, the death of a loved one, losing a job, relationship changes and natural disasters are examples of distressing life events that can cause physical, emotional, spiritual or psychological harm. Alyssa Wink is director of fitness and well-being at Samaritan Health Services and said that people can improve their capacity to withstand and recover by learning new skills and practicing them. According to Wink, resilience can be strengthened and developed. “It won’t make your problems disappear, but the more tools you have in your toolbelt, accompanied by practice and repetition, you’ll be able to work through stressors with more ease.” Wink invites you to explore these tools in self-care and resiliency. Make Social Connections Be present with each other. We need other people during challenging times to provide support and acceptance. Having quality relationships with other people – family, friends, neighbors, colleagues or helping professionals, helps us to cope. These connections protect us against feeling lonely and isolated. You can grow your social circle by joining a group with shared interests, values or goals. Also, be wary of how technology, including excessive social media use, can distract you from engaging with the people around you. Look for Day-to-day Purpose What things bring you fulfillment? Doing the hobbies and activities you enjoy increase your optimism and bring you a sense of accomplishment. There are many ways to relax and manage stress, such as meditation, breathing exercises or yoga. You could also start a new hobby. Broadening your sense of self can make you feel steadier in times of distress. Extend Acts of Kindness Share a smile with a stranger. This simple act can have a positive impact for you and those you encounter. Volunteering is a great way to meet new people and can also get your mind off your troubles. Doing something for someone else creates a sense of purpose. Helping others can also change your perspective by recognizing that other people are also facing difficulties. Write It Down Take time to reflect and learn from difficult situations. Journaling can help you to understand how you’ve dealt with past adverse events so that you can change how you respond in the future. Face your problems by making a plan of action. By writing out steps, it can keep you from feeling overwhelmed. Be gentle with yourself. The important thing is to see how you can improve and move on. Practice Self-care Be gentle with yourself and your expectations. It’s ok to take breaks and practice setting healthy boundaries to protect your peace. Staying physically healthy improves your emotional well-being. This includes getting enough rest, eating nutritious foods, moving your body and doing things that make you happy. Avoid unhealthy coping mechanisms by limiting alcohol and avoiding drug use, smoking and risky behaviors. Reach Out for Support Embrace vulnerability with a safe support. If you are struggling or not sure where to start, consider talking to your health care provider. They can guide you on ways to improve your resilience or refer you to supportive services to cope with specific issues, such as grief or mental health concerns. The online portal MyChart offers many useful health management tools and features. It’s quick and simple to sign up at samhealth.org/MyChart.
