Mental health and resilience
Resilience is the ability to bounce back after an adverse event and is a protective factor for mental health and wellbeing. It is a quality that enables you to not only survive but thrive in the face of challenges and setbacks. Regional Queenslanders have had their fair share of adverse events over recent years, experiencing floods, fires, drought, COVID lockdowns, and the cost of living crisis. This article will explore the relationship between resilience and wellbeing with strategies to build resilience.
Mental health in Australia
Mental health is the state of a person's emotional, psychological, and social wellbeing. The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) reports that 42.9% of people aged 16–85 years have experienced a mental disorder at some time in their life. That is a large portion of the Australian adult population.
The role of resilience in good mental health.
The World Health Organization identifies the ability to cope with everyday stress as a fundamental aspect of good mental health, and studies indicate that resilient people show enhanced emotional regulation, flexibility, and a positive perspective.
Flexing your resilience muscle
Resilience is like a muscle – the more you work on it, the stronger it gets. There are things you can do to strengthen and build your resilience including:
Your mindset: Look at challenges as learning opportunities instead of unmanageable problems. Know your strengths, and keep them front of mind when navigating challenges.
Social connections: The importance of strong social connections with friends, family, and peers cannot be underestimated. Social support can provide emotional and practical assistance during and after adverse events. selectability programs are tailored to foster community and peer connection to support mental wellbeing and suicide prevention across regional and rural Queensland communities.
Self-care: Make looking after yourself a priority to build your self-esteem. Participate in activities that benefit your physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing. Things like exercise, mindfulness, and hobbies will bring enjoyment and relaxation that can manage stress and anxiety levels.
Coping skills: Understand what coping mechanisms for managing stress and adversity look like for you. It may include problem-solving strategies, relaxation techniques, and seeking professional support when needed.
At some point in life, everyone will face challenges and adversity. However, by understanding the connection between resilience and mental health, you can use tools to bolster your capacity to prepare and cope when adverse events occur. Queenslanders are renowned for their adaptability, and innovation, and in times of crisis, we unite to support each other.
Help is available
If you or someone you care about is in immediate need of support, please contact:
- Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467
- Lifeline 13 11 14
- Kids Helpline 1800 551 800
- Standby - Support After Suicide 0438 648 268
Sources
- Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) - https://www.abs.gov.au/
- beyondblue - https://www.beyondblue.org.au/
- Lifeline - https://www.lifeline.org.au/
- Health Direct