Book excerpt: > 1 in 7 primary school kids have a mental illness > 1 in 5 adults will experience mental ill-health throughout the year > 65% of adolescents do not seek help for mental illness THE POWER OF EXPERIENCE Hugh van Cuylenburg was a primary school teacher volunteering in northern India when he had a life-changing realisation- despite the underprivileged community the children were from, they were remarkably positive. By contrast, back in Australia Hugh knew that all too many people found it hard to be happy, or suffered from mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety. His own little sister had been ravaged by anorexia nervosa. A PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS How was it that young people he knew at home, who had food, shelter, friends and a loving family, struggled with their mental health, while these kids seemed so contented and resilient? He set about finding the answer and in time identified three pivotal traits - gratitude, empathy, and mindfulness - which seemed to underpin the children's resilience. SHARING WISDOM, IGNITING CHANGE In the ensuing years Hugh threw himself into studying and sharing this revelation with the world through The Resilience Project, with his playful and unorthodox presentations which both entertain and inform. Now, with the same blend of humour, poignancy and clear-eyed insight that The Resilience Project has become renowned for, Hugh explains how we can all get the tools we need to live a happier and more fulfilling life. READ THIS BOOK AND YOU WILL- through powerful and touching stories from people Hugh has met and helped during his years on the road. and discover how we can address and cultivate it in our daily lives. in transforming mental health and enhancing overall wellbeing. and obstacles that hinder personal growth and mental health. in helping raise happier children, and learn practical strategies to do so effectively. 'Hilarious, inspiring and heartbreakingly vulnerable, this book has the potential to be life-changing' MISSY HIGGINS