Toxic positivity can be thought of as an overgeneralization of happiness or a positive state of mind. When someone exhibits toxic positivity, they may not express negative emotions or reactions even if a negative emotion is justified.
Typically toxic positivity leads to denial, minimization, invalidation, or lack of authentic human response. It can significantly affect daily life and relationships. If you or someone you know is experiencing toxic positivity, here are a few different ways to work through and avoid it.
Manage Emotions; Don’t Deny Them
It is perfectly okay to react negatively to a situation. Not everything in life will yield happy outcomes. Express yourself even if it is a negative emotion. When you minizine negative emotions, you invalidate them.
Listen to Others and Show Support
Telling someone to look on the positive side of the situation or think happy thoughts may feel like you are helping and supporting them. However, that could be minimizing their feelings and encouraging them not to express themselves. If you have someone around you struggling, listen to what they are struggling with. Encourage them to express themselves and always validate their feelings.
Have Realistic Expectations
Set realistic expectations for yourself. Being happy and positive is wonderful and is something to strive for. However, it is unrealistic to think you will always be happy. Let yourself feel whatever emotions come to you. If something sad happens, let yourself feel sad. If something exciting happens, then let yourself feel excited.
Practice Self-Care
Practicing self-care will help you to stay tuned into your feelings. Do activities that help you relax and refresh. Practice doing activities that allow you to express yourself, such as painting or drawing. Work with a mental health professional to learn more about your mental health issues and which activities may benefit you the most on your journey towards healing and happiness.
Toxic positivity can significantly affect mental health, relationships, and overall well-being. It is something that you may not even realize you are doing. Work to stay in the moment and notice when you may be exhibiting this behavior. Try to give yourself realistic expectations, practice self-care, and avoid denying emotions. Here at The Guest House, we know it is challenging to change your behavior. We are trained to help you learn more about your mental health issues and better understand your behavior and reactions. Call us today to learn more about our treatment options at (855) 483-7800.