Resiliency in Young Carers

The capacity for the human spirit to rise above adversity so often has me awe struck.  The subject of resilience has always been of interest to me.  I think of mothers around the world tucking their babies into bed with the sounds of war occurring around them.  I wonder how people can possibly live in adverse conditions and overcome the trauma.  Children in caregiving situations are by definition at risk for developing the same kinds of adjustment disorders as victims of trauma.

Much of the research that has been complied about resiliency looks at the protective factors in the lives of young caregivers.  This following is a list of factors that promote resiliency in people with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder according to the work of  Matthew Tull, PhD.  Looking at this list as it pertains to young carers, it is easy to see how these skills would be helpful in facilitating adversity.

• The ability to cope with stress effectively and in a healthy manner (not avoiding).
• Being resourceful and having good problem-solving skills.
• Being more likely to seek help.
• Holding the belief that there is something you can do to manage your feelings and cope.
• Having social support available to you.
• Being connected with others, such as family or friends.
• Self-disclosure of the trauma to loved ones.
• Spirituality
• Having an identity as a survivor as opposed to a victim.
• Helping others.
• Finding positive meaning in the trauma.

The Powerhouse Project has embraced the concept of resiliency and has tried to incorporate skill building opportunities into their programming to encourage the development of these skills.