Signs of Toxic Positivity Handout

Examples of toxic positivity statements are “Just stay positive” or “It could be worse,” dismissing real emotions instead of acknowledging them.

Toxic positivity usually stems from the pressure to always appear happy, focus on positive emotions, or the discomfort of dealing with difficult emotions, both in oneself and others.

Focus on validating emotions by listening without judgment and offering support that encourages honest expression rather than forcing positivity.