How Promoting Resilience In Family Members Can Help Them Navigate Mental Health

Life often consists of many ups and downs. The ability to remain strong in the face of adversity is commonly known as resilience. While some might believe resilience is a natural, innate trait, it can be seen as a skill that may be learned with time and effort. A person’s level of resilience can have a notable impact on their brain function and overall mental health. In general, the development of resilience begins at home during childhood, and it can be important to instill resilience in all family members to promote good mental health and the ability to withstand hardships. If you struggle to model resilience as a parent, working with a therapist to develop this skill may be beneficial for you and your children. 

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Understanding resilience

The way a person copes with difficult experiences can have a significant impact on their mental health. Resilience can be defined as the ability to endure and cope with the difficult aspects of existence. Being resilient may not make one’s hardships disappear, but it can improve mental health and reduce the risk of turning to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as substance misuse. 

If you are struggling with substance use, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at (800) 662-4357 to receive support and resources. Support is available 24/7.

One key distinction to note may be that resilient individuals are not simply those who “put up with” life’s challenges. Resilience typically entails a host of emotionally intelligent and mentally healthy skills that enable individuals to better cope with life’s difficulties and make better, healthier choices along the way. Key traits of resilient individuals may include the following: 

Key traits of resilient and problem-solving individuals

• Acceptance: Resilient people tend to accept their situations in life rather than dwelling on misfortunes. They usually acknowledge their negative emotions in a healthy manner instead of ignoring or suppressing them.
• Flexibility: Resilient people are often adaptable and willing to change their plans and goals to fit their circumstances.
• Solution-oriented: Resilient people frequently look for ways to address challenges.
• Creative: Those who are resilient often maintain open minds and look for creative ways to move forward.
• Realistic: Resilient people may be less likely to compare themselves to others than those who are less resilient. They usually know their limitations and focus on tangible action over daydreams. They may also maintain realistic expectations.

Individuals who have a lower level of resilience may be more prone to mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. They may also be more likely to have a pessimistic outlook on life, which can contribute to poor decision-making in some situations.

The role of family in building resilience (for a child and a parent)

In general, children learn from the behaviors displayed and instilled within them by their parents. Children tend to be perceptive from a young age and frequently mimic their parents’ examples. Although the desire to thrive in life may be innate to human survival, resilience itself is not necessarily a trait a person has from birth. Resilience can be viewed as a skill that can be developed in individuals over time, and the lessons often begin at home. 

A child’s earliest and potentially most important support system may be their family. When parents show resilience in their lives, it can instill resilience in their children and promote good mental health and positive coping skills. According to a 2020 study, families that practice healthy coping strategies usually have enhanced well-being and overall resilience.

Practical strategies for promoting resilience in family members

How therapy can help with mental health and developing resilience in family members

It can be challenging to instill resilience in your children if you are experiencing mental health challenges or have never developed resilience yourself. Working with a licensed therapist can empower you to become more resilient and improve your parenting skills. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) may be particularly helpful as it usually helps individuals identify and adjust unhelpful thought patterns. This can positively impact a person’s emotions and behaviors as well, and it can also provide individuals with effective coping skills to use in daily life and share with their children.

Family resilience therapy for children and parents

Online therapy can be an accessible alternative to in-person therapy if transportation or scheduling difficulties make it difficult to visit a therapist’s office on a regular basis. Another benefit of using an online therapy platform is that you can customize the therapy experience to your comfort level by choosing between video conference, online chat, and phone call options for each session.

A large body of evidence supports the notion that online therapy produces the same results as face-to-face therapy. Both in-person and online options can effectively address a variety of mental health concerns, including a lack of resilience and parenting challenges.