Growth from adversity requires us to develop and increase our resilience.

First, an Observation of Trees 

Recently, South Dakota had a fierce derecho roll—or blast—through much of the state, with 28 counties reporting damage. Even by South Dakota standards, this storm tested us. 

The morning after, my route to Sioux Falls Psychological Services required some navigation around street closures because of fallen trees and property damage. The extent of the damage felt palpable as I later walked through the neighborhood and onto the adjoining Augustana University campus. Decades-old trees lay broken or uprooted, while trees near them appeared none the worse for wear. Now, admittedly, I don’t know how old those toppled trees were, but they certainly looked sturdy and old enough to have been around to have seen a few things in their time. At the very least, to this non-arborist observer, they didn’t look any different from their still-standing brethren. It made me wonder, “Why this tree and not that one? Why not both or neither?” After all, they all were battered by the same storm and had certainly survived hundreds of storms before this last one. 

Like trees, in normal circumstances we’re designed to handle the forces that life throws at us throughout our seasons on this planet. Over time, we each face illness, anguish, loss, and injuries only differing in frequency, intensity, and duration. However, some people become overwhelmed by the forces wrought upon them and are left with crippling injuries compounded by the scars from prior wounds. They become depressed, anxious, or frightened and struggle to remain intact. For others, they face the storm head-on, and although miserable and cold, they somehow adapt, stay rooted, and even grow from the experience.

The different outcomes may have something to do with varying levels of resilience.

What Exactly is Resilience?

Resilience is our capability to use healthy mindsets and behaviors to adapt and quickly recover when confronted with adversity. 

The American Psychological Association (APA) published an excellent articlethat further defines resilience as:

“…the process of adapting well in the face of adversity, trauma, tragedy, threats, or significant sources of stress—such as family and relationship problems, serious health problems, or workplace and financial stressors. As much as Resilience involves “bouncing back” from these difficult experiences, it can also involve profound personal growth…Becoming more resilient not only helps you get through difficult circumstances, it also empowers you to grow and even improve your life along the way.”

The takeaway is that resilience allows us to adapt, recover, and grow when facing significant adversity.

Characteristics of Resilient People

If you are a resilient person, here are some characteristics that might apply to you:

• The ability to develop and maintain positive relationships with others with whom you feel connected and supported.
• The capability to tap into a robust support system that can give you hope – these may be individuals, groups, faith-based organizations, or other civic groups.
• Possessing a healthy self-image.
• Having a pretty consistent positive attitude.
• The ability to accept the situation rather than deny or avoid it.
• Not believing that everything is beyond your control – you have the agency and will to take action.
• The ability to regulate your emotions and free yourself from destructive emotions like hate or rage.

When you look at this list closely, notice that these characteristics all have one thing in common: they are learnable. You can learn and grow these characteristics in your life.    

There’s Hope: Learn How to Foster Your Resilience

Research has found that resilience is associated with lower anxiety and depression symptoms. When treating anxiety and depression, therapists often work with their patients to manage their emotions, learn to correct their distorted self-image, and discover their sense of empowerment.  Good therapists help the patient increase their resilience.

There is hope. You can discover and foster your resilience. If you are struggling during these most challenging times, give us a call. Sioux Falls Psychological Services and River Counseling Services meet you where you are, offering hope. That is our mission. You may schedule an appointment at the Platte office at 605-337-3444 or meet with one of our Sioux Falls Psychological Services therapists from your computer, smartphone, or in person at our clinic. To schedule an appointment, please call 605-334-2696.