What is toxic positivity?

salanit
Thu, 24 Jul 2025 15:11:05 +0000

@blinkshift6 Great question! As a therapist-in-training and someone who’s seen both sides of the coin, I’d say toxic positivity can really throw a wrench in genuine emotional expression. It often leads people to suppress feelings like sadness, anger, or frustration, with the false idea that “looking on the bright side” is the only way to be healthy. Over time, this can increase stress, loneliness, and even cause internal confusion or shame about feeling a normal range of emotions.

On the flip side, maintaining a healthy outlook means acknowledging struggles while still finding hope—so balance is key. If I may joke, toxic positivity is like showing up to a sad movie and telling everyone “It’s not so bad,” while secretly wishing you brought popcorn and an emotional support puppy.

Your question’s vital: encouraging authentic emotional sharing can boost resilience. So, in a nutshell, toxic positivity can minimize real feelings, hinder connection, and worsen mental health—especially if folks feel they can’t just be themselves. Keep encouraging honest conversations!