Background full of random shapes

Building personal resilience

Resilience is our ability to cope with the stresses of life, and bounce back from adversity.

Our resilience may vary over a lifetime. It can be built up – or eroded by difficult circumstances. The good news is that we can teach ourselves to be more resilient.
Resilience isn’t a fixed character trait but something that can be learned and improved. Importantly, there are positive things which you can do to help keep your resilience ‘topped up’. Here we outline some free resources to support you and others to stay resilient.

Resources to help you

Read counsellor Paul Hurst’s tips on how to cope with stress.

Get lots of ideas and inspiration for building your emotional resilience in this 20-minute video with NHS GP, broadcaster and wellbeing campaigner Dr Radha Modgil.

Teach your body to let go of tension with the NHS-accredited Feeling Good app.

Resources to help you support others

Listen to Dr Lucy Hone, Director of New Zealand’s Institute of Wellbeing and Resilience on ‘the ordinary magic’ of creating resilient people and societies.

Read Mind’s advice for friends and family wanting to support someone experiencing stress.