What is toxic positivity and how is it impacting healthcare professionals and patients?

Toxic positivity is the idea that we must remain positive at all times, even in the face of great hardship. Although it sounds like a lovely idea, this blog outlines why it can actually be really damaging…especially in the healthcare sector. 

Why is it dangerous? 

Encourages downplay of real harm

If a health worker opens up about feeling depressed, only for a colleague, friend or family member to say ‘at least you have a job and a roof over your head’ puts that person at risk of feeling that they’re being ungrateful – when in reality, their negative feelings are completely valid and should be responded to as such. 

Deters people from seeking help  

If a patient has been told that an illness ‘could be worse’ or that their new diagnosis is ‘no big deal’ they may feel too embarrassed to ask for help when they are struggling or in pain. Patients should feel seen and supported by healthcare professionals and comfortable sharing worries and concerns. 

Can cause low self-esteem 

Ignoring negative emotions can lead to low self-esteem as it can make the individual feel like they are not allowed to be sad otherwise they are letting themselves and others down. This is perhaps especially true for healthcare professionals who are used to putting the needs of others before themselves. To then be encouraged to ‘push through’ is damaging because it means sitting on negative emotions. This is dangerous to not only the individual, but also their patients as we all know repressed emotions have a tendency to come out at the wrong person at the wrong time…

How to challenge toxic positivity 

Listen & validate 

Whether you’re talking to a patient or a colleague, show them you’re there for them and willing to listen to any issues they may be facing. Reaffirm that their response to the situation is completely valid and that you are there for them. 

Let it all out

Acknowledge however it is you’re feeling in the moment and find a healthy way to express those emotions. Holding onto stress is bad for both your physical and mental health, so it is important to find healthy coping mechanisms. 

Be honest 

Next time someone asks how you are, be honest. Avoid brushing over your problems and try sharing them with a friend – you’ll be surprised how good it feels to get it off your chest.

Final thoughts? 

Being positive doesn’t need to be demonised and can often be a good thing – it only becomes an issue when you realise you are overlooking negative emotions rather than facing them head-on. It won’t always be rainbows and butterflies, but that’s OK! The important thing is that you deal with your emotions, no matter how difficult or uncomfortable it may feel – because that’s the only way to get the right help and move forward.