march Blog posts

Introduction: The Burden of Forced Happiness

Have you ever found yourself in the middle of a rough day, only to be told, "Just smile!" or "Look on the bright side!"? Maybe you’ve even scrolled through social media, bombarded with influencers preaching endless positivity, as if sadness, anger, or frustration are signs of personal failure. This relentless push for positivity, often referred to as toxic positivity, is everywhere. It’s in the captions of Instagram posts, in the casual reassurances from friends, even in workplace slogans that demand we "stay upbeat" no matter what.

But here’s the uncomfortable truth: forcing ourselves to be positive all the time doesn’t make life better. It can make things worse. The expectation to maintain an unwaveringly cheerful facade can lead to emotional suppression, strained relationships, and, paradoxically, a deep sense of loneliness.

Understanding Toxic Positivity: What It Is and Why It’s Harmful

Toxic positivity is the belief that we should always maintain a positive attitude, no matter how complex or painful a situation is. While optimism and resilience are important, toxic positivity takes a step too far by invalidating genuine emotions.

According to Lew and Flanagin (2024), toxic positivity often serves as an image-management strategy, especially on social media, where people feel pressured to project an idealized version of their lives. It turns happiness into a performance, rather than a genuine feeling. This leaves many feeling as if their struggles are shameful or unacceptable, reinforcing that negativity is a personal failure rather than a normal part of life.

Toxic positivity manifests in many ways, including:

• Dismissing emotions – Saying "Don’t be sad" or "It could be worse" when someone expresses pain.

• Pressuring constant happiness – Expecting ourselves or others to be cheerful, even in difficult times.

• Minimizing struggles – Offering blanket reassurances like "Everything happens for a reason" instead of acknowledging real hardship.

• Forcing workplace positivity–Employers encourage “smile culture” while ignoring real employee concerns.

• Social media perfectionism – The pressure to appear always happy, even when struggling internally.

What Happens When We Suppress Negative Emotions?

Emotions exist for a reason. Sadness, anger, and frustration are not mistakes; they are signals. Suppressing them under the weight of forced positivity can lead to severe mental health consequences.

Research by Goodman (2022) shows that people who suppress negative emotions experience higher levels of anxiety and depression. When we tell ourselves to "just be happy," we deny ourselves the opportunity to process difficult emotions in a healthy way. Instead, these unprocessed emotions build up, leading to emotional burnout, stress-related illnesses, and even feelings of alienation.

Think about the last time you were really struggling, and someone dismissed your pain with a quick "just think positive!" Did you feel supported? Or did it make you feel even more alone? Toxic positivity isolates us because it tells us that our negative emotions are not welcome, even when they are entirely justified.

Even worse, toxic positivity discourages people from seeking help. If society conditions us to believe that we should always be happy, then admitting that we are struggling can feel like failure. This is especially damaging for those dealing with mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, or PTSD, who may feel pressured to "fake" happiness rather than ask for the support they need.

The Impact on Relationships: Why Toxic Positivity Creates Emotional Distance

Positivity should never come at the expense of emotional honesty. When we dismiss our own or others’ struggles in favor of forced cheerfulness, we weaken our ability to connect on a deeper level.

Toxic positivity is particularly harmful in interpersonal relationships. When someone constantly responds with "it’s not a big deal" or "just stay positive," it prevents meaningful emotional expression. This can make people feel unheard, invalidated, and disconnected from those they trust.

Imagine confiding in a friend about a personal hardship, only for them to brush it off with "good vibes only!" or "just don’t think about it." Instead of feeling supported, you might feel alone in your struggle—like your emotions are an inconvenience rather than something worth addressing.

In relationships, the pressure to maintain positivity can create an emotional disconnect. If someone constantly deflects serious conversations with "look on the bright side," they may unknowingly push their loved ones away. True intimacy is built on sharing joy and struggle, not just one or the other.

Strategies to Have Genuine Positivity Without Dismissing Negative Emotions

So, does this mean we should abandon positivity altogether? Of course not. But positivity should be real, not forced. Here are some ways to build a healthier relationship with emotions:

1. Acknowledge All Emotions – Understand that every emotion serves a purpose. It’s okay to feel sad, frustrated, or angry. These feelings deserve space and attention.

2. Practice Emotional Validation – Instead of saying "Just cheer up," try "I see that this is hard for you. I’m here if you need to talk."

3. Encourage Authentic Conversations – Be a safe space for others to express their joys and struggles without fear of judgment.

4. Challenge Social Media Perfectionism – Recognize that most online content is curated. Real life is messy, and that’s okay.

5. Allow Yourself to Sit with Discomfort – Growth comes from acknowledging and working through difficult emotions, not from pretending they don’t exist.

6. Reframe Positivity as a Tool, Not a Rule – Positivity should be a choice, not an obligation. It’s okay to seek hope, but it’s also OK to sit with pain when necessary.

Conclusion: Let’s Make Space for Real Emotions

The expectation to "just be happy" is not only unrealistic—it’s unhealthy. Happiness should be a natural feeling, not a social obligation. Instead of pushing positivity at all costs, we should create a culture that allows for emotional honesty and balance.

The next time someone shares their struggles, resist the urge to offer a quick-fix positive response. Instead, listen. Validate. Offer support without trying to erase their pain. And when you find yourself struggling, remind yourself: it’s okay not to be okay. Emotions are not problems to be fixed but experiences to be felt.

By embracing all emotions—not just the positive ones—we cultivate a more profound, meaningful sense of well-being. Real happiness doesn’t come from suppressing sadness but from allowing ourselves to feel everything wholly and without shame.

Join the Movement

Let’s start normalizing the full spectrum of human emotions. Share this blog with someone who needs to hear that it’s okay to feel. Engage in conversations that allow for both happiness and struggle. Most importantly, you should permit yourself to experience life authentically, without the pressure always to be positive.

MLA Format Citation: 

• Ghimire, Preeti, and Vimala M. “Perception of Toxic Body Positivity as a Coping Mechanism Among Young Adults.” International Journal of Indian Psychology, vol. 9, no. 2, 2021, https://ijip.in/articles/perception-of-toxic-body-positivity/

• Goodman, Sarah. “Conceptualizing Toxic Positivity: A Scoping Review Protocol.” Qeios, 2022, https://www.qeios.com/read/YHXAFZ

• Lew, Zijian, and Andrew J. Flanagin. “Toxic Positivity Intentions: An Image Management Approach to Upward Social Comparisons on Social Media.” Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication, vol. 29, no. 3, 2024, Oxford Academic, https://academic.oup.com/jcmc/article/29/3/zmae003/7682448

We surely still remember the dread coronavirus caused us, shaking people’s lives to the core. Since then, we have been extra protective of our surroundings, hygiene, and spreading the word about any potential virus that could threaten humanity yet again. However, there still is one such virus that lurks around, which is still not discussed enough but is dangerous enough to be the most dreaded virus by the end of this year, as the title suggests. But with our latest technology, past experiences, and incredibly talented scientists and doctors, we can tackle this virus with great force, much before it’s too late. The name is this virus is Influenza, and mainly its subtype A H5N1 is the most harmful. 

WHAT IS INFLUENZA?

It a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that can infect the nose, throat, and lungs, ranging in severity from mild to severe. Although influenza was originally a virus that affected animals only, a few years back new cases started showing up in China as well. Animal influenza viruses are distinct from human seasonal influenza viruses and do not easily transmit between humans. However, zoonotic influenza viruses - animal influenza viruses that may occasionally infect humans through direct or indirect contact - can cause disease in humans ranging from mild illness to death. There are 4 types of influenza viruses, types A, B, C, and D. Influenza A and B viruses circulate and cause seasonal epidemics of disease. Out of these only subtype A viruses spread in humans and they are a combination of the proteins on the surface of the virus. Currently circulating in humans are subtype A(H1N1) and A(H3N2) influenza viruses. 

HOW IS IT CAUSED?

Birds are the natural hosts for avian influenza viruses. After an outbreak of the A(H5N1) virus in 1997 in Hong Kong, China, this virus and others have spread from Asia to Europe and Africa. In 2013, human infections with the influenza A(H7N9) virus were reported in China too.

While this virus previously did not affect humans several countries have reported cases of human infection from certain swine influenza viruses. Close proximity to infected pigs or visiting locations where pigs are exhibited has been reported for most human cases, but some limited human-to-human transmission has occurred.

Just like birds and pigs, other animals such as horses and dogs, can be infected with their influenza viruses,

 like-  canine influenza viruses, equine influenza viruses

RAPID INCREASE AND EFFECTS OF INFLUENZA

The increasing number of avian influenza spillovers to non-bird species demands innovation to prevent a future influenza pandemic. As deadly as the coronavirus pandemic has been, the catastrophic potential of influenza viruses is much worse. The 1918-1919 influenza pandemic infected a third of the world’s population and claimed over 50 million lives. Today’s concerning increase in avian influenza spillovers echoes that history. Avoiding another pandemic is crucial, like remembering to turn off the stove before leaving the house. Let’s take the lessons learned from our recent hard-fought global battle to ensure we face future viral threats with resilience and strategic prowess. Even though it stayed dormant for the next few years, 2024 witnessed the virus affecting people again. It is essential to stay alert and take immediate actions when the following symptoms show, as the following are the few effects of the virus-

• sudden onset of fever

• cough (usually dry)

• headache

• muscle and joint pain

• severe malaise (feeling unwell)

• sore throat

• runny nose.

PREVENTION AND CURE

Most people will recover from influenza on their own. People with severe symptoms or other medical conditions should seek medical care.

People with mild symptoms should:Stayy home to avoid infecting other people

• rest

• Drink plenty of fluids

• treat other symptoms such as fever

• Seek medical care if symptoms get worse.

People at high risk or with severe symptoms should be treated with antiviral medications as soon as possible. They include people who are:

• pregnant

• children under 59 months of age

• aged 65 years and older

• Living with other chronic illnesses, receiving chemotherapy, and living with a suppressed immune system due to HIV or other conditions.

The WHO Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS) monitors resistance to antivirals among circulating influenza viruses to provide timely evidence for national policies related to antiviral use.

Vaccination is the best way to prevent influenza. Safe and effective vaccines have been used for more than 60 years. Immunity from vaccination goes away over time, so annual vaccination is recommended to protect against influenza. The vaccine may be less effective in older people, but it will make the illness less severe and reduce the chance of complications and death. Vaccination is especially important for people at high risk of influenza complications and their carers.

Imagine having to miss school or work just because you lack access to a simple commodity— a sanitary pad or a tampon. Imagine using newspapers, rags, or even leaves to deal with your period. This is not a dystopian world; this is the daily reality of millions of people across the globe.

What is Period Poverty?

Period poverty is the economic and social obstacle that denies individuals the ability to manage their menstrual health in a safe and dignified manner. This involves:

Lack of access to sanitary products.

Insufficient access to clean water and sanitation facilities.

Limited menstrual health education, results in misinformation and stigma.

According to UN Women, it is estimated that millions of women and girls across the globe cannot afford menstrual hygiene products and have to use inappropriate items such as pieces of cloth, newspapers, or even leaves. This not only affects their health but also their participation in everyday life.

Period poverty is not only an economic problem, it's a public health emergency, it's an educational hindrance, and a sign of deeply ingrained gender inequality .

Causes of period poverty

Period poverty results from a mix of economic, social, and systemic issues

1. Economic Barriers

For many, menstrual products like pads, tampons, and menstrual cups are simply unaffordable. In low-income households, people are often forced to choose between buying food or purchasing sanitary products.

In some countries, menstrual products are taxed as luxury items rather than essentials, making them even more expensive.

2.Lack of Access to Clean Water and Sanitation

Proper menstrual hygiene requires access to clean water, toilets, and waste disposal facilities. However, many schools, workplaces, and public spaces lack clean and private toilets for menstruating individuals. Without safe disposal methods, people resort to unhygienic alternatives, increasing the risk of infections.

3.Menstrual Health Education Gaps

There is a shortage of adequate education on menstruation, which makes many individuals ill-prepared to handle their periods. Menstruation is not openly talked about in some communities, and this contributes to misinformation and stigma.

4.Cultural Stigma and Taboos

Menstruation remains "dirty" or "shameful" in most societies, promoting negative perceptions toward menstruation. Certain beliefs prohibit menstruating individuals from attending religious activities, preparing food, or even having interactions with other people. Stigma discourages transparency about menstrual well-being, preventing the proper dealing with period poverty.

5.Government and Policy Support Deficiency

In most nations, period products are not defined as essential health products, making them not readily available in public settings such as schools and shelters. Public policies frequently miss menstrual health as a priority for public health.

In some areas, period poverty is not realized as a problem, causing the implementation of reforms to be postponed.

Impact of Period Poverty

The effects of period poverty go far beyond the bodily functions of menstruation.

1. Educational Disruptions

Numerous girls miss school while in their periods as they do not have access to sanitary towels or sanitary facilities. This results in higher absenteeism, which will subsequently impact their performance

In severe cases, girls drop out of school entirely since they fear being embarrassed by not having the proper menstrual management.

Based on UNICEF, approximately 1 in 10 girls in sub-Saharan Africa miss school when they have their periods.Missing school affects a girl's capacity to reach her full potential, restricting her future prospects and perpetuating the cycle of poverty.

2.Health Risks

Using unhygienic materials or not managing menstruation properly can result in severe health problems:

Numerous people turn to the use of unsafe alternatives such as cloth rags, newspapers, or even leaves, which result in bacterial infections, rashes, and long-term reproductive health issues.

Inadequate access to sanitary products can result in people having to get through their periods with discomfort, leading to pain, emotional distress, and low self-esteem.

3. Social Exclusion and Stigma

Menstrual stigma marginalizes and discriminates against people who menstruate.

In certain societies, menstruating women are "unclean" or "impure," and thus they are kept away from social, religious, or family activities during their menstrual periods.

Shame and secrecy about menstruation can have a long-term impact on mental health. Most people feel embarrassed or anxious about their periods, leading to feelings of inadequacy, low self-esteem, and social anxiety.

The menstruation stigma is strongly gendered, and it reinforces the perception that menstruating people are less valuable or inferior. This in turn deepens gender inequality.

Global and Local Campaigns against Period Poverty

a) UNICEF's Initiatives

The United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF) has been consistently striving to enhance menstrual health by:

1.Distributing menstrual hygiene kits among schools and affected areas by disasters.

2ラックAna Awareness campaigns to counteract menstrual stigma.

3. Enhancing school sanitation facilities for privacy and hygiene for menstruators.

b) UN Women's Campaigns

UN Women has been a vocal advocate for period poverty, stressing that menstrual health is a human right. Their initiatives include:

1.Researching the effects of period poverty and petitioning for policy reforms.

2.Endorsing community-based initiatives that offer free sanitary products for low-income groups.

 3. Encouraging workplace and school policies for inclusivity for menstruating individuals.The

c) Sanitation and Hygiene Programs of World Bank

World Bank has invested in several projects to enhance the availability of clean water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities in poor countries. Their programs concentrate on:

1. Providing schools and public places with clean and private toilets.

2. Teaching communities about menstrual health management.

3. Collaborating with governments to effect big-scale policy changes

Local and National Initiatives

a) Government Policies and Free Sanitary Products

Several governments have identified menstrual hygiene as a public health issue and made efforts to eradicate period poverty. Some of the prominent ones are:

1.Scotland: It became the first nation in the world to make menstrual products free for every citizen by passing the Period Products Act (2021).

2.New Zealand and Kenya: Offer free sanitary products in schools to avoid missing out on education for girls.

3. India: The government makes subsidized sanitary pads available under schemes such as the Menstrual Hygiene Scheme (MHS) under the National Health Mission.

b) NGOs and Grassroots Movements

1. The Pad Project: A movement that was born out of the Oscar-winning film Period. End of Sentence., which donates pad-making machines to rural areas.

2. Days for Girls: An organization that distributes reusable menstrual kits and offers menstrual health education in more than 144 countries.

3. Goonj (India): Implements the "Not Just a Piece of Cloth" campaign, converting used cloth to reusable sanitary napkins for disadvantaged women.

What Can You Do?

Although governments and organizations contribute the most, there is something you can do too. Here's how:

1. Donate Menstrual Products: Help out local shelters, NGOs, or schools who offer free period products to people in need.

2. Promote Menstrual Health Education: Educate others on menstruation to dispel the stigma and promote frank discussion.

3. Champion Policy Change: Sign onto petitions, write to policy makers, and push for legislation that would render menstrual products free and accessible to all.

4. Propose Sustainable Menstrual Hygiene: Promote the use of reusable menstrual products such as menstrual cups and cloth pads to minimize waste and ensure long-term affordability.

Conclusion

Period poverty can be addressed, but with concerted efforts on all global , local, and individual levels. We can make a world where no one needs to suffer due to their period by providing access to menstrual products, dispelling the stigma, and pushing for policy reforms. Period poverty is not only an issue of hygiene—it's one of dignity, education, and equality.