Toxic positivity is the belief that no matter how dire or difficult a situation is, people should maintain a positive mindset. It can sound like “Don’t worry. It will work out.”, “Think happy thoughts.” “Everything happens for a reason.”, “At least [something worse] didn’t happen.”, “Just get over it.”, “It’s not that serious.”

These minimize and deny any trace of human emotions that aren’t strictly happy or positive.
Of course, having a positive outlook on life is good for your mental well-being. The thing is that life isn’t always positive. We all deal with painful emotions and experiences. Those emotions, while often unpleasant and uncomfortable, are important. And they need to be felt and dealt with, not dismissed.

Accept that it is a tough situation to be in, even as you recognize that it is all part of Hashem’s larger plan for you.

Don’t expect too much from yourself. When you are facing a stressful situation, it’s normal to feel stressed, worried, or even fearful. When you experience a loss, it’s normal to feel sad.

Negative emotions provide important information that can lead to beneficial changes in your life. Pay attention to the message your emotions are telling you.

It’s okay to feel more than one thing. You can be sad about the end of something and excited about what is coming up.

Avoid toxic positivity in your own life. Also, don’t bring it into the lives of others. Allow others to have their feelings. Even if it makes you uncomfortable to watch them in that state. Offer support, validation and hope.