Resilience is the word we use to describe being able to manage when we face change and challenge in life.
Resilient people keep going when times are hard, and have belief they can cope. Disappointments and sadness will still happen, but a person’s inner strength and determination carries them through.
Developing coping strategies to manage feelings during hard times is important for long term emotional wellbeing. Resilience is shaped by;
There are some things we can’t change, such as biological makeup. There are others factors that with support children and young people can change or learn to manage differently.
In Professional Settings
Settings can have a profound influence on supporting children and young people to develop the coping strategies and self belief that are the foundation of resilience. A culture of pride and belonging and the recognition of personal strengths can foster resilience in the school community and for each individual.
Group and individual sessions can give space to young people to reflect on their thoughts and feelings and find their own solutions to the challenges and worries they face.
The key skills that help children and young people build resilience are;
Young people will experience disappointments and upsets at times. They may lose a sporting event, or a piece of artwork may not turn out ‘as hoped’. They may have problems in friendship groups, or worry about their appearance. These are ideal opportunities to help children explore the feelings that arise and think about how they can manage them, and learn from them for the future.
Resources
Nuffield Health
School Wellbeing Activity Programme (SWAP) - Free 6 week programme of evidence based lessons delivered in six one hour sessions. The programme is aimed at children aged 9-12 years old but can be adapted for other school age children. The four key themes are:
E-Learning
'All Our Health' offer free, bite-sized e-learning sessions - to improve the knowledge, confidence and skills of health and care professionals in preventing illness, protecting health and promoting wellbeing. The sessions cover some of the biggest issues in public health including;
They contain signposting to trusted sources of helpful evidence, guidance and support to help professionals embed prevention in their everyday practice.
Shelf Help - Reading Well
