It is safe to say that the pandemic has resulted in a different kind of humanitarian disaster; mental health concerns! So how do you stay positive and instil resilience?
Resilience is the process of finding healthy ways to adapt and cope with adversity and distress. Building resilience can be key to getting through this unpredictable and ever-changing time. Resilience can help you cope with the distresses of life that can have adverse effects on your mental health, especially if you have existing issues. Depression, stress and anxiety can be aggravated if your natural ability to cope is weak.
So how do you build resilience and maintain it?
Everybody have their own, unique way of coping with life’s stresses. For some people, this may come naturally and be associated to genetics. For others, life’s experiences will help you develop emotional resilience over time. But for some, this can seem an extremely drawn out, tiresome task. Take a look at the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scaletool which assesses the various dimensions associated with a persons’ resilience.
Here are some of our tips and advice to help you:
1. Cultivate a belief in your ability to cope
Develop positive coping mechanisms that work for you. Change your perspective or reframe the situation to view an opportunity instead of a problem. Compartmentalise conflicting thoughts to help you remain positive and focused. Use meditation to reinforce coping ability.
2. Stay connected with sources of support
Whilst it has been incredibly difficult to remain connected during the various lockdowns, several new opportunities to stay in touch with family and friends has allowed this to happen more than expected. Make time to speak to someone who helps keep you positive and focused. This could be a family member, friend or colleague. Alternatively, you may feel comfortable to speak to someone new to you, like a volunteer befriender or professional therapist. Find out what is available in your local area and make the call to stay connected. Social media has played a significant role and there are several groups that you can get involved with through Facebook and other platforms.
3. Talk about your experiences
Talking through what you are going through and general acceptance that you are struggling can ignite resilience in itself. Sometimes, whilst talking about your struggles and problems, you come up with a solution yourself. Give yourself credit and try and talk about one positive achievement at every opportunity. Check out our topical workshops which will allow you the opportunity to talk to others who may be experiencing a similar concern or problem.
