Life has a way of putting you down from time to time. Whether it’s the loss of a loved one, a step back in your career, or just a day when everything is upside down, it may be enough to send you spiraling into depressing times.
But with the right tools, you can prevent yourself from going too far into the dark side. Therapists use applied psychology techniques to help you navigate such times and strengthen your emotional resilience.
To give you a hand, we’ll show you three simple techniques that anyone can apply without professional supervision. So stay tuned!
Applied Psychology and Emotional Resilience
Do you know that saying, “if you fall off a horse, get right back on”? It may sound a bit weird in today’s world settings, but it’s the perfect depiction of mental resilience.
Someone with a resilient mind can bounce back from difficult situations and adapt well to changes. They allow negative emotions to exist but don’t get overwhelmed or stuck by them. Finding the strength to keep going and regain emotional stability involves mental, emotional, and behavioral flexibility.
This is not an innate ability. It takes time, exercise, and intention to strengthen your emotional resilience. In fact, if you want to learn what it takes, you have to study the concepts and techniques. There are even special education programs, like an Applied Psychology Bachelor Degree, that teach students the fundamentals.
3 Applied Psychology Techniques to Try
Fortunately, some techniques that help you build mental strength are easy to understand and apply, like the ones we’ll discuss below.
1. Mindfulness and Self-Awareness
There’s no need to know fancy meditation techniques or join an expensive retreat. Mindfulness is all about being present in the moment and taking life one moment at a time. This way, you’re focused on the things that keep you moving forward instead of being stuck on negative emotions from the past.
Self-awareness keeps you observant of your own habits and triggers. It helps you shift perspective and gain a deeper understanding of your own thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
Here are a few psychologist-approved techniques to try:
- 5-minute meditation sessions (you can use an app for guided meditations);
- Journaling using various prompts focused on self-discovery;
- Physical activities like yoga, tai chi, or qigong to become more attuned to your body and mind.
2. Grow Your Social Network
Despite having more means to connect, we are lonelier than ever. Loneliness is not just a mental health issue; it also has physical consequences and can lead to various health problems. This is why real-life relationships are so important.
Focus on connecting with empathetic and understanding people who can remind you that you’re not alone in the midst of difficulties. If you don’t have anyone to rely on, join a group or a club that sparks your interests. Meeting new people keeps you grounded in the present and lets you explore other points of view.
3. Look for Meaning
It doesn’t have to be some lofty goal. It can be anything as simple as trying to help others. Volunteering or supporting a friend in their own time of need is the easiest way to get out of your own head and shift perspective.
Plus, when you help others, you help yourself. Your sense of self-worth will increase, and there’s a chance to connect with people with similar convictions, all of which can empower you to grow in resilience.
There’s also meaning in looking for a solution to your current predicament. Be proactive and work on your self-discovery until you find a new path to move forward.
In Conclusion
Being grounded in the present, forming new connections, and trying to find meaning in everyday life are approved methods to strengthen your emotional resilience. And, if you want to learn more, consider studying applied psychology and getting your degree.
