Maintain relationships: A Close, positive relationships with family and friends are a buffer against stress. Share your thoughts and feelings with someone who you can trust to listen without trying to “fix it”. Draw comfort and strength from the support of others who care about you. Remember: you need other people and they need you too!
Give and receive help: People come together in time of crisis. Accept the help that is offered to you. Do what you can to help others and serve your community. You are important and remember: helping others benefits the helper.
Spend time with others: Take time for social activities with friends and family. Come together with people who share your interests and beliefs. Being active in civic groups, faith-based organizations, or other local groups provides social support and can help with reclaiming hope.
Additional Resources
For more information about developing resilience, go to www.apa.org/helpcenter and www.liveyourlifewell.org.
Our 24 page .pdf slide show is available here: Resilience FACTS.
If you want to talk to someone about fostering resilience in times of disaster, call American Red Cross Disaster Mental Health at 701-364-1800.
This information provided by Red River Resilience (March, 2010).
