Key factors in building longer-term resistance

Building psychological resistance requires sustained practice. Building resistance is like building muscle, we need to use it regularly to strengthen it.

Our Biology

This means looking after our physical wellbeing. Key to this are:

A healthy, balanced diet
Regular exercise
Quality sleep
Regulating our nervous system
- Where we can choose to relax or be responsive
- Where we feel we have control over relaxing/responding

Our Psychology

Building self-awareness
Employing active coping skills (self-regulation)
Being realistic optimism
Ensuring cognitive flexibility/mental agility
Mastery (self-efficacy), also described as confidence in our abilities

Our social connections:

Maintaining a supportive social network
Reaching out for support when needed
Being connected to positive institutions

Our spirituality:

Embracing a moral compass
Considering a bigger picture
Meaning making, having a sense of purpose