Mental Resilience in a Changing World - Just Jane Story #WFDD2025

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Mental Resilience in a Changing World

Authored by L. T. Hyatt, Administrator at the CCFP Secretariat


The 2025 theme for WONCA’s World Family Doctor Day — Mental Resilience in a Changing World — speaks volumes. While it is directed towards family physicians and health and care providers, I believe it resonates far beyond the walls of clinics and hospitals. I'm not writing this as a healthcare professional. I write as Jane — just plain old Jane — a woman living day by day, trying to find the inner strength to keep moving forward.

We are all navigating a world that seems to shift beneath our feet. Climate change, political instability, economic uncertainties, and rapid technological changes have become constant companions in our daily lives. On top of that, there is the rising tide of individualism and the increasing disconnect in our communities. In such a world, every single one of us needs an unshakeable armor — that armor is mental resilience.

So, what is mental resilience? To me, it's that quiet, persistent strength deep within — the ability to withstand, adapt, and keep going in the face of chaos, uncertainty, or pain. It’s not about being invincible; it's about finding the courage to carry on even when you’re overwhelmed, afraid, or worn out.

As I age, I notice the toll — physically, emotionally, mentally. I forget things more often. A forgotten birthday here, a misplaced key there, and suddenly a quiet voice whispers Alzheimer’s? The fear creeps in. But then, I dig deep for that “one thing” — my personal spark — that keeps me grounded. It could be faith, a kind word, a memory, a purpose, or the love of family. We all have that “one thing,” even if it looks different for each of us. That is resilience. That is survival.

My hope is that each of us finds our “one thing” — that source of strength that reminds us that we can go on. Mental Resilience in a Changing World is not just a theme — it is a necessary life skill. If humanity is to thrive, not just survive, we must nurture and protect this inner strength, in ourselves and in others.

Let us all dig deep. Let us all fight through. Because the world is changing — and so must we.

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