WAYS TO DEAL W/ TOXIC POSITIVITY
recognizing toxic positivity:
toxic positivity usually comes in the form of invalidating one’s negative feelings / emotions. while these are completely normal and human to have, people with a toxic positivity mindset believe we should stay positive at all times, even when we want to be sad, which sounds great in theory but is unhealthy in practice when it means dismissing bad / sad / angry / displeasing feelings.
some common toxic positivity phrases are
- good vibes only
- it could be worse
- but what about (someone who has it worse)
- but your life is so good
- but what about (great thing that just happened to you)
- just focus on the positive
now a lot of toxic positivity is said with good intent - just don’t be sad, but that is not practical, nor healthy.
things to say when faced with toxic positivity
- I appreciate your insight but my feelings of sadness are valid
- not every day has to be a good day
- everyone has bad days and we are allowed to
- we experience a range of emotions because it is healthy, so we must let ourselves express that
- being sad and true to myself is better than pretending to be alright to keep up appearances
what would/do you say when faced with toxic positivity?
I always try to validate my feelings aloud to them - so maybe they can recognize that it’s normal to have a full range of emotions and feelings.
#safespace #embracevulnerability #lemon8challenge #toxicrelationship #toxicpositivity @Lemon8 Wellness
Toxic positivity refers to the phenomenon where negative emotions are belittled or dismissed in favor of a compulsory positive outlook. It often manifests through phrases like 'good vibes only', pushing individuals to mask their true feelings. This attitude, despite often being well-intentioned, can lead to emotional suppression and unhealthy coping mechanisms. Acknowledging that experiencing a spectrum of emotions is normal is essential for mental wellness. Recognize the common triggers of toxic positivity in your daily interactions, such as encouragement to overlook stress or sorrow. Effective ways to combat it include expressing that everyone has off days and it's okay to not be okay. Supporting oneself or others in recognizing valid feelings helps create a healthier emotional environment, where sadness and frustration can coexist with joy and positivity. A supportive dialogue, combined with understanding, promotes emotional authenticity and reinforces that it's natural to have both highs and lows in life. Creating a safe space to share feelings without judgement encourages better mental practices and enhances overall well-being.
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