Psychiatrists used to view a person's past as a sort of prison with personality characteristics that are immutable. But a more positive position is emerging, in which it is felt that all people have the capacity for resilience. Many of the qualities can be learned. A counselor can help an individual to identify strengths, then nurture and develop them. We can't avoid all risk in life.
Successful coping is key.
Experts view traumatic experiences as critical events that allow growth and transformation to a degree that can't happen without them. They can force a person to learn new skills, gain confidence, and strengthen personal relations. Some individuals say that despite an illness or trauma, they are experiencing the best years of their life. The crises have brought them a heightened awareness of life's joys and a better ability to connect with other people. Some feel that they have been tested and can now survive anything.