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resilience

The ability to cope with stress, hardship or trauma and to recover from it.

rih-ZIL-yens noun

What it means

Being able to adjust and keep going after a hard experience, such as illness, loss or a disaster. Resilience is not a fixed trait: it grows with support from family and friends, a sense of purpose, problem-solving skills and healthy habits. Nurses need it too, to cope with the stress of their work and avoid burnout.

For the nurse

Ask what has helped the client get through hard times before, and build on those strengths. Point clients and families to support groups and community resources.

At a glance

Spanishresiliencia

Related terms

coping

The thoughts and actions a person uses to manage stress, problems and strong emotions.

adaptation

A change that helps a person or the body adjust to new conditions or stress.

social support

The help and comfort a person gets from family, friends, community and groups.

stress management

Ways of reducing stress or coping with it in healthy ways.

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