Resilience as a protective factor against anxiety and depression in vulnerable contexts: a systematic review
Keywords:
Resilience, anxiety, depression, mental health, vulnerabilityAbstract
Anxiety and depression are among the most prevalent mental health problems worldwide, particularly among populations exposed to conditions of social, economic, family, or health-related vulnerability. In this context, resilience has emerged as a fundamental protective factor that promotes positive adaptation to adverse situations and contributes to the preservation of psychological well-being. The aim of this systematic review was to analyze the available scientific evidence regarding resilience as a protective factor against anxiety and depression in vulnerable contexts. A qualitative documentary research approach was employed through the review of studies published between 2020 and 2026 in academic databases including Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, SciELO, Redalyc, and Google Scholar. The findings revealed a consistent inverse relationship between resilience and symptoms of anxiety and depression. Furthermore, factors such as optimism, family functioning, social support, self-efficacy, emotional regulation, and positive affect were identified as key elements that strengthen resilience processes and promote mental health. The analyzed evidence indicates that resilience exerts protective effects among children, adolescents, university students, older adults, informal caregivers, and healthcare workers. In the Ecuadorian context, the findings highlight the importance of strengthening psychological and family resources to address the multiple vulnerability situations affecting the population. It is concluded that resilience constitutes a key tool for the prevention of anxiety and depression, as well as for the promotion of psychological well-being and positive adaptation in the face of adversity.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Karla Villarreal-Álvarez, Carlos Fernando García-Sánchez, Erika González-Farfán
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