Building resilience in times of stress or adversity

How you feel can affect your ability to carry out everyday activities, your relationships and your overall mental health. Also, how you react to your experiences and feelings can change over time. Emotional wellness is the ability to successfully handle life’s stresses and adapt to change and difficult times.

The ever-changing reality of our world today challenges our sense of control and forces us to focus and develop coping skills to increase our emotional resilience. Emotional resilience refers to one's ability to adapt to stressful situations or crises. 

Reflect on keeping a healthy, balanced perspective. Manage your self-talk; what we tell ourselves really does matter. It is normal to spend time and emotional energy interpreting what we are experiencing but be mindful of the story you are telling yourself. At times, we may catch ourselves heading into negative territory when things are not going our way or we are experiencing some anxiety about a person, place or thing in our lives. In these moments take some time to challenge yourself.

Ask yourself if what you're saying to yourself about this situation reasonable and realistic. Challenge "all-or-nothing" thoughts; these thoughts tend to not be accurate or productive and can fuel feelings of anxiety.

Challenge “should” thoughts; these tend to be counter-productive and can fuel feelings of anger or resentment.

If you, a family member or a team member are struggling with feelings or emotions that interfere with your or their ability to engage in daily life, reach out to the team at Miami-Dade Employee Assistance Program (EAP). EAP counselors focus on supporting employees with resources that assist in setting the foundation for restoration or enhancement of emotional and mental wellness. The EAP provides on-site and virtual assessments as well as support sessions for employees in need of assistance. To set up services with an EAP counselor at no cost call 305-375-3293 or email [email protected]. The hours of operation are Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.