toxic positivity: 'cheer up' and other wishes that make things worse
slapping on a happy face when you feel awful or telling someone things could be worse is not a great idea.
sad affects between two to three per cent of canadians , with an additional 15 per cent experiencing a milder form of sad where they’re still able to function every day without major disruptions. sad is also believed to run in families — 13 to 17 per cent of those who have sad also have an immediate family member with the disorder. it’s estimated that sad makes up about 10 per cent of all depression cases, according to the canadian mental health association.
“as a result of covid-19, many people are already experiencing higher levels of stress, anxiety, uncertainty, loneliness and isolation,” says sara kamin , a toronto-based registered psychotherapist.
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on the odd days the sun comes out, kamin recommends getting outside and taking in the sunshine and fresh air — while following covid-19 safety precautions, of course. light therapy boxes are also a good option to get an emotional lift. known as sad lamps, these “boxes” mimic outdoor light and can help lift symptoms of sad. kamin suggests talking to your physician about these lamps and whether they can be used in conjunction with vitamins, herbal supplementation, antidepressants, or psychological counselling.
dduong@postmedia.com | @dianaduo