It’s better to bend than break

The original Bend Don’t Break was written by Ed Sipler: Health Development Specialist in Alcohol and Drugs, South Eastern HSC Trust and Sarah Lewis Therapeutic LAC Nurse, South Eastern HSC Trust.

This revised and adapted version was written by Ed Sipler and Colette Reynolds, Wellbeing Practitioner, South Eastern HSC Trust. Funded through the Public Health Agency and South Eastern HSC Trust. With thanks to participants of the Recovery College course on Building Resilience, who made valuable suggestions.

In a storm, a palm tree’s trunk bends. Their deep roots help them stand in hurricane-force winds. Resilience during tough times is about being like a palm tree.

Bend, don’t break!