Therapist Describes The Crucial Difference Between Support And ‘Toxic Positivity’ Using A Simple Chart

When somebody comes to you with bad news or a problem they’re facing, it is a natural reflex for many of us to say something along the lines of “just be positive!” – well, a therapist is here to tell you, this advice is toxic. Nobody wants to be kicked when they’re already down so naturally, we believe that telling people uplifting mantras about positivity will give them the boost they need, but this isn’t always the case.

Psychotherapist Whitney Hawkins Goodman, LMFT, owner of The Collaborative Counseling Center, runs an Instagram account called @sitwithwhit where she shared a significant chart on the difference between giving somebody ‘validation and hope’ versus ‘toxic positivity’ and it is making waves on the internet.

The therapist explained she found the ‘toxic positivity’ sayings in Pinterest, that can be harmless mantras for some but for those going through a tough time they can have a deeper effect.

Goodman wrote: “I’ve realized people HATE the word toxic. I hear ya’ll. Got a lot of comments on “never give up.” Decided to keep it. There are relationships, life goals, plans, and situations that is OK to give up on. Not everything needs to result in completion. Sometimes it is safer to give up. We owe each other the space to discuss the options,” and asked her followers, “What are some other positive sayings that you think are totally dismissive?”