What is resilience? It’s the ability to make it through difficult times and come out stronger on the other side. Life often presents us with unexpected challenges, such as death, divorce, or the arrival of a new baby. While various factors contribute to an individual’s resilience, family resilience encompasses even more elements. These stressors do not have to weaken your family bonds; in fact, there are proactive steps you can take to ensure that you and your loved ones navigate tough times successfully.
#1. Lean On Your Village
Social connections such as extended family, friends, or your spiritual community can offer support in many ways. There is no shame in letting others know you are struggling and could use emotional, informational, or tangible help. Those who care about your family are often more than happy to do what they can.
#2. Maintain Routines
When life throws changes at you, rituals and routines can be incredibly comforting. Try your best to continue existing activities such as family dinners, holiday celebrations, or movie nights, but also be flexible to shifting some of the details, if necessary.
#3. Communicate About Feelings
During stressful times, there will likely be a wide range of emotions going on in your family. Check-in with each other periodically to ensure everyone has a chance to process their emotions out loud, even if it’s difficult or uncomfortable.
#4. Focus On What You Can Control
Track your thoughts to ensure you are not spending mental energy on things outside your control. This can help you rest, reassess, and ensure you have the ability to take action on the important things. It also allows you to be available to focus on your family’s current needs.
#5. Seek Professional Help When Needed
There may be trying times in your life when you just need a little extra help, such as therapy or medication. Getting your needs met is not an admission of weakness but a show of strength. Modeling this vulnerability to your family is also a great way to show them how to seek any assistance they may need in the future.
Are you looking for more support to increase your family’s resilience? We can help. Unified Family Therapy offers individual and family therapy that can support your entire family and give you the tools you need to stay strong. Contact us today to find out how our services can support you.
or