Ego-resilience and psychological wellness in rural communities

Resilience in the context of rural communities is defined as the capacity to move through and beyond adversity. The literature recognises that rural people suffer particular stressors: high exposure to global economic pressures and government policy changes; droughts, floods and other extreme weather conditions; and the challenges of keeping a farm financially viable and family intact. Owing to the necessities of survival in "the bush", rural people tend to be stoic and self-reliant and therefore reluctant to seek help except in dire emergencies. Rural men have been shown to draw on inner strengths to regain control after difficult experiences, along with using formal and social supports, and strategies such as taking breaks. Individual and community resilience are mutually supportive and researchers argue that balanced social and economic development is needed to enhance resilience and wellbeing in rural areas, in addition to improved access to mental health and other health services. © 2011 by Nova Science Publishers, Inc. All rights reserved

The components of resilience: Perceptions of an Australian rural community

Resilience, of individuals, is a well-established concept in the psychology/ mental health literatures, but has been little explored in relation to communities. Related theory in the community development and social impact assessment literature provides insight into qualities and assets of communities that enable them to develop effectively or to adapt to major changes. This article reports the components of community and individual resilience identified through a participatory action research study within a rural Australian community. These are social networks and support; positive outlook; learning; early experiences; environment and lifestyle; infrastructure and support services; sense of purpose; diverse and innovative economy; embracing differences; beliefs; and leadership. These components entail interactions between individuals, the community, infrastructure, the environment and the economy in the process of building resilience. The findings extend from previous research by recognizing environmental and economic factors, infrastructure and support services, as enhancing resilience, and expand the limited evidence base for those wishing to promote resilience at the community scale. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc