"We studied what it meant to be “mentally tough” and what characteristics the mentally tough athlete possessed.

Characteristics of Mentally Tough Performers

• Cope more easily with setbacks
• Have control over anxiety and use it productively
• Have higher self-confidence
• Use more positive self-talk
• Have a positive outlook on the future
• Set specific goals and visualize accomplishing goals
• Have a support network"

"But the reality is that the majority of people who experience stressful or traumatic life events do not develop long-term distress, and, in fact, report a return to their baseline level of functioning and even report growth in the face of adversity"

"Posttraumatic growth is defined as a positive psychological change experienced as a result of the struggle with highly challenging life circumstances (Tedeschi and Calhoun, 1996). "

"Take pride in knowing that you are achieving your own peak performance and inspiring those around you. Most of us will never know how we would respond in the face of adversity. You know. And you should be proud."

To read Shelly A. Wiechman's full article, click: https://www.phoenix-society.or...iliency-after-trauma