September 11 2023
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Member News

Staying resilient

Not everyone finds it easy to talk about their mental health.

After what’s been a tough couple of years, rather than focusing on the negatives, we’re taking a positive approach by sharing ways in which people can make simple changes to their everyday lives to improve their mental and physical wellbeing. We’ve partnered with our insurance partner TAL, to present a range of interesting and informative content from leading Australian mental experts.

What is resilience?

Resilience is the ability to positively respond to adversity. It’s about having the mindset to bounce back and have perspective about trying again and achieving your goals.

It’s well researched that our experiences and environment have the potential to shape the neural pathways in the brain. Our brain has an amazing capacity to change and adapt. This is referred to as neuroplasticity.

One of the most important needs of the developing brain is safety. When we feel safe and secure in our environment, we can think clearly and problem-solve effectively. If we feel unsafe, our brain is likely to detect potential threats and prepare us for a fight or-flight response.

Resilience and stress 

When we’re faced with prolonged periods of stress, the brain may adapt to the unsafe environment by responding with fear-based emotions. Our stress response means we may have increased levels of adrenaline and cortisol running through the body. The result could be an overly anxious brain.

Our brain responds to everyday stressors such as traffic, work demands, deadlines and conflict at work, as well as pressures at home. These stressors may be perceived as potential threat which triggers the fight-or-flight response in the brain.

But it’s not all bad news. The brain can adapt to modern day stress. With knowledge, self-awareness and practice, we train the brain to stay calm and override the stress response. Here are some areas you can focus on to help override the stress response and build resilience:

Physical wellness

  • Eat well and keep a balanced diet;
  • Maintain good sleep habits;
  • Keep active: go for a walk or make time to do some stretches.

Nurturing relationships

  • Stay connected by networking, seeking support and supporting others;
  • Develop empathy: listen and respond to others;
  • Give back through volunteering, charity or spirituality.

Emotional regulation

  • Practice self-care: be mindful and manage your emotions;
  • Stay positive: develop and promote optimism;
  • Adopt a growth mindset: consider adversity a learning opportunity.

We hope these tips help you create a greater sense of ease within yourself and for your loved ones. Your mental health is vital to your overall wellbeing and there are always more actions and behaviours you can learn to safeguard it, especially during times of uncertainty.

Want to learn more?

Important information: This document is prepared jointly by TAL Services Limited ABN 60 076 105 130 and Ingeus Australia Pty Ltd trading as Assure Programs ABN 87 152 509 370 (Assure). The information contained in this brochure is provided by Assure.