However, the expert noted that whether or not we grow stronger from the hardships we encounter depends on the situation and the person. For some, a traumatic experience can turn into a way to become more resilient to the unpredictability of life. For others, it can devastate them and they might not bounce back for a long, long time.
"Post-traumatic growth isn't always simple to explain or utilize, but often the adversity we face can create a precedent for what we can overcome, help us to see what we need to be grateful for, and give us an understanding of the support we do have,” psychologist Lee explained to Bored Panda.
“A big part of opening the door to grow from our struggles is finding acceptance and taking ownership over what you can control and finding healthy ways to express the negative emotion that comes with challenges that test us.”
The psychologist shared that he himself had to learn how to walk again. "Using journaling and talking about how I felt played a significant part in my recovery when I had to learn to walk again, and gave me the space to grow to become mentally stronger as a result.”
He added: “It is also important to reflect on all the hurdles you've overcome, so you can see what skills and lessons you've learned to apply in the future, and adversity often helps us to see what really matters, and gets us closer to knowing our values and purpose."
