Lesson 13
Lesson 23 Module 6
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Introduction
In this final module we will discuss resilience. We will also suggest some ways to take care of yourself and begin talking about more resources for you to check out. Identifying some key things to take away will serve as a conclusion to the overall course.
Resiliency
We have been examining the ways in which opioids and other substances play a role in young women’s lives, particularly during pregnancy. As we look at the interrelated areas of our lives, we also feel the need to highlight resilience. It is an undercurrent that flows through all areas of our lives. Addiction, substance use, and our family histories and genes are necessary to discuss, but are not the most important factors in determining how your life plays out. The ability to continue on and to bounce back may very well be what is most important when challenges arise. This ability is often referred to as resiliency.
Discuss:
Is there a time you can think of that you have succeeded despite challenges? Or a time that you made a mistake but did not let it define you?
What do we mean by resilience?
• The ability to recover after adverse events
• Success at defeating the odds despite risk status
• Successful adaptation despite risk
• Positive development in the face of adversity
Some of us have experienced difficult situations already. Some of us have yet to. Some of you will have a long family history that includes battles with addiction. Some of you may have never been taught healthy ways to cope with stress. Some of us may still wonder what a healthy relationship feels like. Mental health may be your main worry. Depression and anxiety are very real and often are self-treated with substance use. None of these things define you, but your resiliency in facing challenges very well may. Finding positive ways to cope and to continue on despite difficult experiences can be essential in defining who you want to be as a person.
What does your future “story” look like?
We encourage you to both reflect upon your past and to focus on your future. What do you think your future looks like?
How can you focus on your strengths and instill a sense of agency in yourself and the women around you?
