Mental heath practitioners can play an important role in helping youth develop resiliency. Some strategies include being able to:
- Identify the youth’s assets.
- Identify the family’s assets.
- Role-model positive behavior.
- Encourage learning and participation in extracurricular activities.
- Encourage the youth to explore and identify his or her values and beliefs.
- Teach communication skills, problem-solving skills, and decision-making skills.
- Promote community involvement.
- Help youth to identify goals and find the resources to help achieve these goals.
- Set clear expectations with the youth.
- Encourage the youth to develop a positive sense of self.
Source: SAMHSA, an Agency of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services
