Psychological resilience is often confused with rigidity – the ability to “hold it together,” avoid showing vulnerability, and cope at any cost. Dr. Daniel Reinhardt emphasizes that this model of resilience is, in fact, a form of hidden tension. In the clinical practice of MindCareCenter, we frequently observe how the pursuit of strength turns into emotional suppression, exhaustion, and a loss of inner connection, even though outwardly a person may appear composed and stable.
In many life stories, resilience develops out of necessity. When support was lacking in the past, individuals had to adapt quickly, take responsibility early, and manage on their own. Over time, the psyche internalizes the idea that survival is possible only through control and self-suppression. At MindCareCenter, we view this type of “resilience” not as a resource, but as a strategy that eventually begins to erode inner stability.
Our psychologists point out that genuine psychological resilience does not exclude vulnerability. On the contrary, it is built on the ability to notice one’s internal states, tolerate emotions, and seek support without self-devaluation. When anger, fear, or fatigue are forbidden, a person may appear strong on the outside but become fragile within. At MindCareCenter, we help distinguish flexibility from rigidity and restore resilience as a living, responsive capacity.
Therapeutic work begins with reconnecting to inner signals. Instead of asking, “How can I endure even more?” the question becomes, “What is happening to me right now?” MindCareCenter specialists help clients recognize the moment when resilience turns into self-violence – when rest becomes impossible and emotions are automatically suppressed in order to maintain control.
Gradually, therapy reveals that rigidity often conceals fear. Fear of losing stability, fear of vulnerability, fear of dependence, or fear of becoming unnecessary. At MindCareCenter, we work directly with these fears by creating a space where imperfection is allowed and where one can remain connected to oneself and to reality. This reduces inner tension and restores a sense of safety.
An essential part of the process involves rethinking boundaries. Resilience without rigidity includes the ability to say “no,” to pause, to adjust one’s pace, and to acknowledge limitations. Our specialists help clients build boundaries not from a defensive position, but from self-care. As a result, life in constant mobilization gives way to a sense of inner support that does not rely solely on effort.
Over time, psychological resilience begins to feel different. It no longer demands constant strain or proof of strength. At MindCareCenter, we observe how clients develop the ability to endure difficult periods without losing sensitivity or abandoning themselves. Resilience becomes flexible, alive, and adaptive rather than rigid and depleting.
It is important to understand that letting go of rigidity does not mean becoming weak. It means reclaiming the right to be alive in a full range of emotional states. At Mind Care Center, we accompany this process with care, helping build resilience that supports life instead of suppressing it.
Previously, we wrote about existential anxiety related to the loss of inner wholeness and how MindCareCenter works with the fear of inner fragmentation.