A Deeper Look at Resilience

Rebecca Leon, MHC-LP

Resilience is defined as the ability to cope with and recover from difficulties. Many factors contribute to resilience, and an individual's perception of the world, availability and quality of social resources, and specific coping skills may enhance their resiliency (APA, 2022). Anyone can develop resilience, but for Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color (BIPOC), resilience often takes on unique dimensions shaped by cultural backgrounds, historical contexts, and systemic challenges. While BIPOC communities are unique in their own experiences, they collectively share adversity in the exposure to discrimination (Martinez et al., 2021). Therefore, a deeper understanding of BIPOC experiences is needed for the full context of the meaning of resilience. 

In an article about redefining resilience among BIPOC communities, Gustavo Molinar (2020) asks us to consider how some people have no choice but to be resilient. This resilience is an act of resistance and survival (Molinar, 2020), which becomes a coping mechanism against discrimination or any other discrimination-related stress (Martinez et al., 2021). Understanding the deeper meaning of resilience among BIPOC communities is essential when implementing resilience strategies for mental health. 

Implementing Resilience

Among BIPOC communities, generations of trauma, systemic racism, and cultural barriers have shaped the concept of resilience. We must acknowledge and center the narratives and history of BIPOC community members when discussing resilience strategies. This means learning the histories of BIPOC communities, reading books by BIPOC authors, and focusing on the strengths and values of various BIPOC groups. Learning about the history of BIPOC communities or extended support groups can help overcome failures, challenges, and trauma (Molinar, 2020). The following practices may help in supporting resilience among BIPOC individuals.

Community Support:

Community support is a cornerstone of resilience, and BIPOC communities often exemplify this principle. A collective sense of responsibility, also known as the "it takes a village" approach, is nurtured over generations for many BIPOC communities (Abdullah, 2023). Whether through extended families, cultural organizations, or grassroots movements, the sense of community can provide a vital support network. Building and nurturing these connections fosters a resilient spirit that thrives on collective strength.

Self-Care and Healing Practices:

Cultivating resilience requires intentional self-care and healing practices. BIPOC individuals may find strength in traditional healing methods, mindfulness rooted in cultural traditions, and embracing holistic approaches to well-being. Self-care and healing practices may also include counseling. BIPOC may find it particularly important to seek support from therapists who align with and affirm their intersecting identities (Molinar, 2020). 

Self-care may also include connection with nature, artistic expression, and storytelling. In many Indigenous cultures and other BIPOC communities, individuals share a profound spiritual connection with nature. This connection offers a sense of comfort, and leaning into it can help build resilience (Abdullah, 2023).

Artistic expression is another strong mechanism of resilience in BIPOC communities. Art, music, dance, and other cultural traditions often serve as therapeutic outlets to express emotions, tell stories, and seek comfort. Storytelling also fosters resilience by passing lessons, values, histories, and experiences from generation to generation. Storytelling can be therapeutic and foster connection among the people telling stories (Abdullah, 2023). Engaging in self-care and authentic healing practices such as these are profound methods of building resilience.

Addressing Systemic Barriers:

Resilience isn't just about bouncing back from adversity; it's also about dismantling the barriers that create adversity in the first place. BIPOC individuals often navigate systemic challenges that affect mental health. Resilience involves advocacy, allyship, and creating spaces that promote equity and justice. 

Final Thoughts on Resilience

BIPOC communities must be centered in conversations about resilience. By understanding the historical roots of resiliency among various BIPOC communities, we can better understand how to implement resilience strategies. Resilience is not just a response to adversity; it's a transformative journey that empowers individuals to thrive despite their challenges. As we embrace diversity in the conversation about resilience, we move towards a more inclusive understanding of what it means to navigate life's complexities with strength.

Sources:

• Abdullah, Z. (2023). Inherited Resilience: How BIPOC Communities Thrive Despite Hardships. Wellnest.

• American Psychological Association. (2022). Resilience. American Psychological Association. 

• Martinez, L. C., Barrita, A., Wong-Padoongpatt, G. (2021). Resilience in the BIPOC community: A systematic review. University of Nevada, Las Vegas. 

• Molinar, G. A. (2020). (Re) Defining Resilience: A perspective of ‘toughness’ in BIPOC communities. Mental Health America.