Maria Ruberto, director of Salutegenics Psychology and co-designer of an acclaimed resilience certification, shares transformative insights from her impactful career. She explores the connection between biology and behavior and defines resilience as an active process of overcoming adversity. The conversation touches on screen time's negative effects, the power of collaboration in fostering resilience, and practical techniques like breathing exercises for anxiety management. Listeners gain valuable tools for emotional regulation and learn how nurturing connections enhance well-being.
Resilience is a dynamic process that involves learning to navigate emotions effectively rather than merely a lack of distress.
The six domains of resilience—vision, composure, reasoning, health, tenacity, and collaboration—provide a comprehensive framework for enhancing coping abilities.
Understanding the neuro mechanics of wellbeing helps individuals interpret emotions as valuable data, supporting better self-regulation and mental fitness.
Deep dives
Acknowledgment of Traditional Owners
The podcast emphasizes the importance of recognizing the traditional custodians of the land, specifically the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nation. This acknowledgment highlights the significance of honoring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, drawing attention to the rich history and cultural heritage that exists in Australia. By respecting these traditions, the hosts aim to promote a deeper understanding of the country’s history. The discussion fosters an inclusive environment that values diverse stories as part of their podcast ethos.
Introduction of Resilience Concepts
The episode introduces the concept of resilience, emphasizing that it is not simply the absence of pain or distress, but rather a dynamic process of adaptation in the face of challenges. Maria Roberto, a psychologist featured in the episode, highlights that resilience involves advancing despite adversity, suggesting that it is a verb rather than a fixed trait. This perspective reshapes the common misconceptions about resilience, promoting a more proactive and strength-based understanding. It raises awareness that resilience does not mean feeling less but learning to navigate through emotions effectively.
The Six Domains of Resilience
The hosts discuss the six domains of resilience, which include vision, composure, reasoning, health, tenacity, and collaboration. Each domain contributes to an individual's overall ability to cope with stress and adversity, providing a framework for understanding and enhancing resilience. For example, vision refers to having a clear sense of purpose and direction that guides one's actions, especially in difficult times. Collaboration emphasizes the importance of social connections and support systems in maintaining resilience, underlining that humans are inherently social beings.
Neuro Mechanics of Wellbeing
The podcast delves into the neuro mechanics of wellbeing, explaining how understanding the biological processes behind emotions can aid in self-regulation and resilience. Maria emphasizes the role of the brain in processing experiences, where awareness of how emotions signal physiological responses is crucial for mental fitness. This understanding encourages individuals to not fear their emotions but rather to interpret them as valuable data that inform decision-making. By recognizing the connection between emotional and physiological states, listeners can better navigate their responses to stress and develop healthier coping strategies.
Impact of COVID on Mental Health
The discussion touches on the impact of COVID-19 on mental health, suggesting that the pandemic has disrupted social connections and exacerbated existing vulnerabilities. While acknowledging that COVID increased stress and anxiety levels, the conversation points out that many individuals may have lacked resilience even before the pandemic. The cumulative effect of everyday stressors, along with larger events like COVID, has highlighted the need for stronger support and coping mechanisms. The hosts stress the importance of addressing both the immediate and longer-term implications of such challenges on mental health.
Settle in and grab your notebooks, you’re in for a good one.
We’re joined by Maria Ruberto, director and founder of Salutegenics Psychology, who just happens to be Ryan and Josh’s (ex) psychologist.
Maria is the co-designer of Resilience First Aid, an internationally recognised two-day certification program, which teaches the neuroscience of resilience (Ryan took sooooo many notes).
We discuss with Maria the relationship between biology and behaviour, and the six domains of resilience. Getting technical, we delve into the negatives of screen time (hello darkness our old friend) and the ridiculously positive benefits of doing stuff with other people.
So join us as we get started on building our resilience toolbox, practice breathing like a baby AND co-regulate like it’s no one’s business.
To sign up to Maria’s Resilience First Aid training, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3WuhOFG
The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.
