Resilience is the ability to adapt and bounce back from life’s difficulties and setbacks. Fostering resilience often involves the development of coping mechanisms, stress management, and emotional strength. Depending on your circumstances, building resilience may not come easily, but seeking supportive relationships and practicing self-care can help.
What Is Resilience? Your Guide to Facing Life’s Challenges, Adversities, and CrisesMedically Reviewed by Seth Gillihan, PhD | July 29, 2024
FAQ
How can I build resilience?
You can build resilience by practicing mindfulness, prioritizing personal wellness, and finding a support network.
What are the signs of resilience?
When you have resilience, you’re able to adapt to challenges, solve problems, learn from past mistakes, and stay motivated.
How does stress affect resilience?
Stress impacts everyone differently. Certain traumatic events or stressful situations may make it harder to cope, but you can find resilience through perseverance and self-growth.
Strong social connections can play a key role in resilience. Stress and trauma might push you toward isolation, but it’s important to ask for help from trusted communities and loved ones.
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Kelsey M. Latimer, PhD, RN
Medical Reviewer
Kelsey M. Latimer, PhD, RN, is a psychologist, nurse, and certified eating disorder specialist, and is the founder and owner of KML Psychological Services.
Chelsea Vinas is a licensed psychotherapist who has a decade of experience working with individuals, families, and couples living with anxiety, depression, trauma, and those experi...
Seth Gillihan, PhD, is a licensed psychologist in private practice in Ardmore, Pennsylvania, who helps people find personal growth by making important changes in their thoughts and...
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Special Report: Why Developing Resilience May Be the Most Important Thing You Can Do for Your Well-Being Right NowMedically Reviewed by Allison Young, MD | December 17, 2020
