The absence of stress is an important preventive factor in building resilience and that is why I have it listed as one of the building blocks in my 10 Resilience Building Blocks. It is essential in the early years for helping our children grow and develop as healthily as possible on all levels.

The early years are critical because of rapid brain growth. The impact of early distress, especially from abandonment, threats or violence, may lead to brain impairment. A child will be more likely to suffer from depression, stress and anxiety disorders, and have a lower IQ.

In adolescence, stress becomes prevalent as the developing teen brain can see us reaching our tipping point sooner than we might otherwise. Prolonged stress can have major impacts on all facets of our life. So what can we do about it? A lot…