Building Resilience in Children and Teens

Kari Mahlik
Jan 12
2 min read

Why Resilience Matters

Resilience is the ability to cope with stress, adapt to challenges, and recover from setbacks. For kids and teens, resilience isn’t about avoiding difficulties — it’s about learning skills to handle them in healthy ways.

At Bay Psychiatry of Wisconsin, we believe resilience is one of the greatest gifts parents, caregivers, and communities can help children build.

Signs of Resilience in Children and Teens

💪 Able to adapt when plans change
🗣️ Willing to talk about feelings
🤝 Maintains friendships and seeks support when needed
🌱 Shows problem-solving skills
💙 Practices self-control during stress

Ways to Help Kids Build Resilience

1. Model Healthy Coping

Children learn by watching. Show them how you handle stress with deep breathing, problem-solving, or asking for help.

2. Encourage Problem-Solving

Instead of giving every answer, ask questions like:

“What do you think might work?”
“How can we handle this together?”

3. Promote Strong Connections

Strong relationships with family, friends, and supportive adults give kids a safety net during difficult times.

4. Teach Emotional Awareness

Help kids name their feelings: “I feel sad,” “I feel worried,” “I feel proud.” Naming emotions builds regulation skills.

5. Normalize Mistakes and Failures

Resilience grows when kids understand that failure is part of learning — not a dead end.

When Extra Support Is Needed

While resilience can be taught at home, some children may need professional support — especially if stress leads to anxiety, depression, or behavioral changes.

At Bay Psychiatry of Wisconsin, we provide:

Therapy for children and teens to develop coping and problem-solving skills
Family support to strengthen communication and trust
Medication management when appropriate
Care available in-person in Green Bay, Door County, Wausau, Oshkosh and via telehealth statewide

Raising Strong, Resilient Kids

Resilience helps children and teens face challenges with confidence — now and in the future. With support at home and professional care when needed, every child can develop the tools to thrive.

👉 Request an appointment today