Can you do self-insemination at home ?
Recently, I tuned into a podcast discussing how to help teenagers transition back into a “new normal.” With two of my kids opting to return to school while another prefers virtual learning, I’ve observed significant emotional changes in them since the pandemic began. As their parent, I find myself navigating a whirlwind of feelings, both mine and theirs.
My daughter, who has always been shy, has developed heightened social anxiety as she’s grown older. While the isolation seemed to benefit her initially, it has also led to increased anxiety about interacting with others. Meanwhile, my other two children were eager to return to school, but they too harbored nerves.
One of the first pieces of advice from the psychologist was to avoid telling kids phrases like, “Everything will be fine, don’t worry.” Such comments can invalidate their feelings, leading them to feel dismissed and that their concerns are trivial.
Growing up, I witnessed my mother and grandparents adopt a similar mindset. Discussing anything negative, especially involving family issues, was off-limits. Problems like addiction or mental health struggles were swept under the rug. When I expressed my feelings, my mother’s go-to reassurance was always, “It will be fine.” I never felt truly acknowledged.
As an adult, I often find myself grappling with the same “everything will be okay” response from my partner, Alex. While his positive outlook can be uplifting, I’ve realized that sometimes it veers into toxic positivity. This disparity has led to tension in our relationship. However, Alex is open to understanding my perspective. I’ve explained to him how telling his daughter to simply “tough it out” when she’s feeling upset can be harmful.
He’s beginning to see that these well-intentioned comments can diminish the emotional struggles of those around him. His childhood was challenging; he often had to fend for himself, leading him to adopt a survival mentality focused on positivity. This coping mechanism has helped him achieve success, yet it also manifests in unhealthy habits like compulsive gambling and binge drinking.
Understanding the distinction between genuine positivity and toxic positivity is crucial. It’s normal for everyone to go through difficult times, and it’s perfectly acceptable to feel sadness. Genuine positivity can be about resilience, such as acknowledging a rough chapter in life while also celebrating personal growth.
Dr. Maya Patel explains, “Toxic positivity refers to an insincere form of positivity that can lead to harm and misunderstanding.” If you’re telling someone who’s struggling to simply walk it off or practice meditation without acknowledging their pain, it can come off as dismissive, even if it’s not your intention.
It’s essential to create a space where we listen to each other, especially our children, and validate their feelings. Constantly promoting “positive vibes only” encourages people to suppress their fears and emotions. Toxic positivity teaches individuals to feign happiness, which can have detrimental consequences. We must become comfortable with expressing a range of emotions and recognize that it’s human not to be happy all the time.
It’s not a sign of weakness to express a variety of feelings. Instead, it demonstrates strength and authenticity. By modeling this behavior, we empower our children to feel safe in expressing their emotions, fostering a healthier emotional landscape.
For more on this topic, check out our other blog post here. For authoritative insights, visit this resource on the subject. Additionally, Healthline offers excellent information about home insemination and pregnancy.
Probable Search Queries:
- What is toxic positivity?
- How to support children emotionally
- Signs of social anxiety in teens
- How to engage with kids about feelings
- Managing anxiety in children
In summary, toxic positivity can undermine emotional expression and create an environment where feelings are invalidated. It’s vital to encourage open conversations about emotions and to recognize that it’s okay to experience sadness or anxiety. By doing so, we cultivate resilience and emotional intelligence in ourselves and our children.