Life isn’t always a smooth ride. We all face challenges, big and small. Some of us may experience more than others.

Having the ability to bounce back, to find resilience, is a key indicator of good mental health.

A simple way to think of resilience is like a spring. When it’s compressed, it stores energy.

When released, it springs back to its original shape. Similarly, when life pushes us down, resilience allows us to spring back up, to find our footing again, and to carry on.

What is resilience?

Resilience isn’t about never feeling down or overwhelmed. It’s about recognising when we’re struggling, accepting our feelings, and finding ways to cope and move forward.

It’s about developing a toolkit of skills that help us navigate life’s ups and downs.

How can we build resilience?

• Self-care: Taking care of ourselves is essential. This includes getting enough sleep, eating well, exercising regularly, and managing stress.

• Positive thinking: While it’s not always easy, trying to focus on the positive can make a big difference. This doesn’t mean ignoring our problems, but rather looking for opportunities for growth and learning.

• Social connections: Having strong relationships with friends and family can provide support and encouragement.

• Problem-solving skills: Learning how to identify problems and develop effective solutions can help us feel more in control.

• Mindfulness: Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and deep breathing, can help us stay present and reduce stress.

Remember, it’s OK to struggle.

Everyone experiences setbacks. The important thing is to learn from them and move forward. Resilience is a skill that can be developed over time.

With practice, we can become better equipped to handle life’s challenges and find joy and fulfilment.

A great way to build resilience is to build new connections, so I have some news about a project launching in October, hosted by Kevin Cawdron, who is a lecturer in mental health nursing and spends a lot of time helping Cheshire FA run various initiatives.

He will be leading the monthly Mental Health Drop Ins, starting on Thursday, October 3. This is a casual, drop-in football session with a chance to grab refreshments inside. The football sessions will take place on the 3G at Moss Farm Leisure Complex, Northwich, CW8 4BG.

If you think might benefit from a kick about or a chat with Kevin, then why not pop along. Please note, individuals don’t need to attend with a parent/carer, but the option is there.

Please note: If you feel you are in a mental health crisis or emergency and may be in danger of causing harm to yourself or others then please contact your GP, go to A&E, call NHS 111, the Samaritans on 116 123 or text SHOUT to 85258