by Frederic Flach, M.D.
About this book
This book examines stress and how people find new strength at times of stress. It looks at how some people come out of a crisis feeling better than ever, while others never seem to bounce back. Through more than thirty years of case studies from his own psychiatric practice, Dr Frederic Flach provides guidance on developing physical, mental, and emotional resilience in order to manage stress.
Book review
The book was well structured and drives home a point – there’s no escaping stress. Stress exists everywhere, and at every stage of our life cycle. However, how we deal with stress matters, and the earlier we face it and overcome it makes us stronger and more attuned to dealing with the next and bigger stress event that comes. As life is a marathon, you can be sure there is always a next stress event around the corner.
And it is important to learn to deal with stress, because there is a strong connection to physical health – prolonged periods of inadequately handled stress compromise our immune systems.
Some personalities are better at being resilient – people with strong self-esteem, are creative, have a wide range of interests, spiritually strong in faith, are tolerant towards distress, and have a focus and commitment to life. Interpersonal strengths also play a part – for example, independence of thought but without being overly reluctant to rely on others, ability to give and take, strong network of family and friends, knowing when to let go of resentments, generosity and ability to give and receive love. Above all, flexibility is key and we need to know when to draw on which strength in order to meet the particular challenge.
Stress accelerates the aging process by activating the removal of calcium from bone. In order to build our biological resilience, Vitamin B6 and minerals such as calcium, magnesium and zinc make a positive contribution. Movement and exposure to light also play a role in maintaining a positive effect on the metabolism of calcium in our bodies.
Lastly, the book also provides some tips on creative problem-solving, with play and laughter being important factors to help stimulate creativity and distancing when we feel stuck.
I did learn something new from the book, and it makes for interesting reading with some case studies thrown in to illustrate various points.
Rin Ranger 