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“Play the Glad Game!” We all remember that scenario from the book or movie Pollyanna. The character has been taught by her father how to play “the Glad Game” in order to find something to be grateful for even in the face of disappointment or hard times. Pollyanna takes this a step further by trying to spread good cheer among the neighborhood folks in her town. Pollyanna remains an endearing fictional character, and we have encountered people in our lives who do the same. In certain circumstances these efforts may be worthwhile, but is it always the appropriate response?
Overly optimistic behavior can become irritating to others when it is inflicted upon them unsolicited. It can also contribute to health problems for those who use it as an escape mechanism. In a real-life crisis like the one we face, this is particularly concerning. We all have individual coping strategies that work for us. But don’t assume your suggestions or recommendations are helpful to others even if your intentions are well-meaning; it has the potential to create more stress or appear critical of how others are handling the situation.
Messages From Society and Social Media
Social media often emphasizes having a positive attitude regardless of dire circumstances. This is exacerbated by posts depicting people with seemingly perfect lives to whom we tend to compare ourselves. There is an endless stream of messages touting the advantages of “staying positive” and sending “good vibes.” Coupled with advice to practice meditation, mindfulness, and gratitude, this adds to the cultural atmosphere of “smoke and mirrors.” While these activities may be beneficial for some, there is nothing wrong with you if it’s not your thing. Moreover, motivational statements and platitudes may do more harm than good when people are experiencing high levels of stress. Are we trying to hide behind these mindsets in order to avoid dealing with our problems? What are the most optimal ways to cope with adversity?
There appears to be a stigma in our society about being labeled as a “negative” individual. This may contribute to the desire to appear happy and content at all times. It can be a stressful way to live, since we all have good days and bad days. Being realistic and attuned to our emotional state should not be equated with being negative. There is no real way to “sugar coat” the recent events that have taken place in this country and around the world. Instead of concealing negative feelings, we can explore effective ways to manage our anxiety. Hiding behind a façade and seeking constant distractions can only go so far, especially when you’re literally wearing a mask! We’re confronted with a roller coaster of emotions on a daily basis and it’s a distinct challenge to function on this uneven keel. It’s natural to have mixed emotions of being grateful to have your health, but feeling down-in-the-dumps at the same time.
Emotions and Health Consequences
Research indicates that there are negative consequences associated with suppressing how you feel during times of stress (Patel & Patel, 2019). It is imperative to express your emotions and take an honest approach in these difficult situations. There is no getting around the reality of pain, grief, anger, and despair. These feelings must be experienced in order to move on and become more resilient. Taking the shortcut using emotional regulation strategies may be a long route to nowhere for our physical and psychological well-being. It can become a vicious cycle and lead to more painful thoughts and emotions over time. In addition, unhealthy coping behaviors may arise, such as the excessive use of alcohol, other types of substance abuse, or disordered eating habits.
Coronavirus Coping Strategies
Can we find a healthy balance between a positive and negative outlook when life is turbulent? Either extreme of being too pessimistic or too optimistic is not ideal as a general state of being. It’s not as simplistic as seeing the glass as half empty or half full. The answer may lie in achieving and maintaining an attitude of acceptance. Much of the current pandemic is out of our control and we’re learning how to embrace this new reality. This is not the same as resignation. Acceptance encompasses having a compassionate attitude towards ourselves, as well as acknowledging the discomfort of the situation we are in. Above all, we can still nurture a sense of hope without viewing life through “rose-colored glasses.”
References
Patel, J. & Patel, P. (2019). Consequences of repression of emotion: Physical health, mental health and general well-being. International Journal of Psychotherapy Practice and Research, 1 (3).
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