Tips to be more resilient

1. To help yourself to be more resilient

Positive self–talk. That means: tell that voice in your head to think about all the good things around you and all the good things that you can do
Set realistic goals, take small steps and build on success
Make good choices
Be a positive person. Compliment others and they will compliment you
Make friends and work at being a good friend
Join in – hang out with positive people, eg scouts, guides, youth groups and environment groups, sports players and friends who build you up rather than let you down
Say “I can’t do this ……..yet!” then try to learn a bit more each day
Exercise, play sport, learn skills, be active
Accept that you will make mistakes – say sorry to yourself as well as to others – then try to put things right and have another go
Get involved in pleasant things like art, music, drama
Give yourself time to think
Have a go at new things, if they are safe of course

2. If your friend is having a hard time

Keep asking your friend to do things with you
Ask your friend to do active things too. Most people feel stronger (and more resilient) if they are fit and active
Encourage your friend to try
Be a good friend and listener
Keep her secrets, unless they are unsafe secrets; if they might be unsafe then tell your trusted adult
Tell the teacher if your friend is being bullied
Say positive things if your friend is feeling sad
Encourage your friend to get help
Don’t get upset if your friend wants to be alone. Tell her that you will be there for her if she wants to play or talk

Source: Kids Health – Dr Kate Says.

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