This week marks the 69th annual Mental Health Week presented by the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA). This year, they’re encouraging Canadians to #GetReal about how they really feel. Never has this been more relevant.

One question that has been asked frequently in recent weeks is “how can I become more resilient?” When things are hard, it’s easy to feel like they’ll never get back to normal. Luckily resiliency—or the ability to bounce back— is actually a skill you can build. Resiliency is about strength. And the only way to build strength is by being challenged. Every time you overcome something difficult, your resiliency naturally grows—you just need to recognize it. 

Inkblot therapist Derek Collins has some suggestions for recognizing how resilient we already are: 

1. Consider some of the struggles you have already faced and overcame. Write them down! The first one might feel hard to think of, but the second and third will start to flow. Write down at least ten, but don’t feel like you have to stop. Tuck the paper away somewhere safe so you can re-read it every time you think, I’m not sure if I can do this. You can!
2. See if the challenge can be broken down into smaller steps. For example, if you are looking for a job, have you perfected your resume? If not, find someone who can help you craft it or look at it with fresh eyes. Smaller tasks are more manageable. Ask yourself, what can I do today?
3. Seek out help where you need it. Resiliency doesn’t mean doing it alone—it means recognizing the resources you have available to you, which may come from working with others. Your friends, family, or therapist are there to help.

We are all resilient—you wouldn’t have made it to where you are without some resiliency! 

If you could use some support recognizing and strengthening your resiliency, Inkblot can help. It’s easy to make an appointment with a therapist tailored to your individual needs. Sessions are available as soon as today. 

Visit inkblottherapy.com to get started.