'Tragic optimism': The antidote to toxic positivity

Tragic optimism acknowledges the pain and suffering of our circumstances, and at the same time, the ability to maintain hope.

Tragic optimism is to accept that suffering is part of life and realise that challenges provide us with a learning moment.

Some who experience a traumatic event and have difficulty coping may develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Encouraging people to be optimistic and grateful when going through tough times doesn't encourage growth beyond tragedy.

In contrast, others find trauma gives them new meaning in life. Instead of letting the negative feelings overwhelm us, we can make a daily effort to feel comfortable with negative emotions while noticing that there's a light at the end of the tunnel.