By Margot Phaneuf, R.N., Ph.D.

2007

Abandonment, violence, neglect – such extreme existential problems can destroy or affect an individual for an indefinite period of time if not throughout his entire life. The damage wreaked at a younger age is even more devastating. Yet some individuals adapt better than others. These individuals are said to be resilient as they do not allow trauma or abuse to poison their existence. They learn to live with the consequences of adversity and to become more resilient. Friedrich Nietzsche once wrote: “From the Military School of Life. – Whatever does not kill me makes me stronger.