Toxic positivity gaslighting is a term used to describe the harmful effects of society's obsession with being positive at all times. While positivity is often seen as a good thing, it can become toxic when it is used to dismiss people's legitimate feelings or experiences. In this article, we will explore what toxic positivity gaslighting is, why it is dangerous, and how to recognize and combat it.
What is Toxic Positivity Gaslighting?
Toxic positivity gaslighting occurs when someone dismisses another person's negative emotions or experiences by telling them to “just be positive” or “look on the bright side.” This type of gaslighting can make the person feel like their emotions are not valid and that they should not express them. It can also make them feel guilty for not being positive enough or for not being able to see the good in a situation.
Why is Toxic Positivity Gaslighting Dangerous?
Toxic positivity gaslighting is dangerous because it can prevent people from processing their emotions in a healthy way. When someone is told to be positive all the time, they may feel like they cannot express negative emotions such as anger, sadness, or frustration. This can lead to these emotions being repressed and eventually manifesting in unhealthy ways such as anxiety, depression, or physical illness.
Additionally, toxic positivity gaslighting can be particularly harmful to people who are already struggling with mental health issues. When someone is told to “just be positive” when they are feeling depressed or anxious, it can make them feel like their condition is not serious and that they should be able to snap out of it. This can exacerbate their symptoms and make it harder for them to seek help.
How to Recognize and Combat Toxic Positivity Gaslighting
Recognizing toxic positivity gaslighting can be challenging, as it often comes disguised as well-intentioned advice. Here are some signs to look out for:
- Dismissing someone's negative emotions or experiences by telling them to “just be positive”
- Telling someone that they should be grateful for what they have instead of acknowledging their struggles
- Invalidating someone's emotions by saying things like “it could be worse” or “you should be happy because…”
- Making someone feel guilty for not being positive enough
If you or someone you know is experiencing toxic positivity gaslighting, there are steps you can take to combat it:
- Recognize that it is okay to have negative emotions and experiences. It is a natural part of being human.
- Seek out people who will validate your emotions and experiences without trying to dismiss or fix them.
- Set boundaries with people who engage in toxic positivity gaslighting. Let them know that their comments are not helpful and that you need to process your emotions in your own way.
- Practice self-compassion. Be kind to yourself and allow yourself to feel your emotions without judgment.
Conclusion
Toxic positivity gaslighting is a dangerous phenomenon that can have negative effects on our mental health and wellbeing. While positivity and optimism can be helpful, it's important to acknowledge and process our negative emotions rather than suppressing them. By recognizing and calling out toxic positivity gaslighting, we can create a healthier and more supportive environment for ourselves and those around us.
If you want to learn more about mental health and wellbeing, be sure to check out International Releases. They offer valuable resources and information on various topics related to mental health and wellbeing, including tips on how to cultivate a positive mindset and cope with challenging emotions.
