What we get wrong about resilience - and how getting it right can lead us to a happier, fulfilled, and functioning life.

"Trauma and adversity don’t block our capacity to grow and thrive - this book teaches us how. As a psychologist, this book provided me with new insights, and as a survivor, I felt validated and seen"
Dr Ramani Durvasula, New York Times bestselling author of It’s Not You

"Clear, grounded, and deeply practical"
Sabrina Zohar


In a world rocked by pandemics, climate change, and political unrest, resilience has never been more essential.

In this groundbreaking book, trauma researcher, survivor, and professor Sherry Hamby reveals the truth about resilience: struggling with trauma doesn’t mean we lack it. Instead, it’s a sign that we’re facing life's challenges head-on. What we need to know is how to bounce back and prepare better for future hardships.

Drawing on years of research and lived experience, Hamby introduces the concept of the "resilience equation": by increasing our 'strengths dosage', we can offset our 'trauma dosage'. In other words, adding more positive experiences can help us heal from the negative ones. It’s possible to thrive, even after significant trauma, and piece together a meaningful, fulfilled life.

This book empowers you with three core steps to cultivate resilience:
1. Find connection – through something larger than yourself
2. Master your emotions and behaviours – learn how to manage your impulses
3. Leverage your resources – tap into the support of family, friends, and community

From practices like mindfulness and forest bathing to deeper calls for social justice and activism, Stronger Than You Think equips you with tools to strengthen your own resilience and uplift others in the process. No matter what life throws your way, you’ll learn how to face it with strength, hope, and purpose.

"Trauma is a worldwide problem, and Hamby’s thoughtful analysis and commonsense steps are sure to be welcome." - Booklist