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Most relationships are tested at one time or another. Any couple can be faced with unforseen hardship, communication issues, a family crisis or unpredictable circumstances.

Whether a relationship subsequently breaks down, or adapts and bounces back in the face of adversity is an indicator of its inherent resiliency.

Relationship resilience requires commitment, determination, emotional maturity and intentional effort.

The following qualities can promote a resilient relationship and protect it from deteriorating:

• Hardiness - the couple express a commitment to face their adversity together. They are committed to being there for each other and find inner resources they hadn't expected
• Maintaining Positive perspective - both strive to find meaning in what they are facing
• Celebrate each other's successes - these positive memories, no matter how small, sustain you when times are not so good. They also deepen the connection between partners
• Laughter, Humour, Fun - promotes a sense of belonging, intimacy and solidarity. Struggling relationships commonly lack this quality
• Social Network - connection with friends and extended family provide balance and support for relationships
• Hope and Optimism - provides options for the relationship and encourages looking beyond "the problem"
• Problem-solving skills - ability of the couple to communicate, assess the problem, generate ways to deal with it and evaluate the process together
• Acceptance - the ability to tolerate and accept different personality traits, perspectives and ways of doing things
• Sharing the supportive role - taking turns being supportive and hopeful when the other is struggling