1. It's all in your head
Yep, depression is totally not real. That terrible anxiety attack you had in the middle of your math class today was all just in your head. Mental health is an integral part of our overall well-being, but it's often overshadowed by this dismissive phrase, "It's all in your head." It’s NOT all in your head. Your struggles are very much valid and real.
2. I was just joking
No, you weren’t! You were being rude and hurtful and now you’re just trying to cover that up after being called out on it! Humour is a wonderful way to connect with others but not when it comes at the expense of others. The next time you hear or say this, ask yourself if it actually is funny.
3. Don’t be such a girl
Be. A. Girl. Be a girl unapologetically. Don't ever let anyone tell you that being a girl is in any way weaker or lesser than any other gender. You go, girl!
4. Boys will be boys
“It’s second nature to walk home before the sun goes down And put your keys between your knuckles when there’s boys around
.. Boys will be boys, But girls will be women,” sings Dua Lipa, in her song Boys will be boys.
A leeway to get away with inappropriate behaviour by implying that it's an inherent trait in all of the male species, if you ask me.
5. You’re too sensitive
And you’re too insensitive for saying that? Everyone is different. Some of us have a tight control on our emotions, while some don't. By saying this phrase, you're only dismissing or belittling a person's emotional responses.
6. Real men don’t cry
‘Be a real man!’ That’s generations worth of a deeply ingrained stigma right there. I’ve heard so many of my guy friends say this and watched a lot of movies where men showing even a tiny bit of emotion is considered ‘unmanly.’ Stop it. Get some help. Crying helps you release your pent-up emotions and is a healthy outlet. Have a good, long cry sesh!
7. Just ignore it, and it'll go away
The girl in class who bullied you today is not going to STOP if you ignore her! The stalker who keeps following you back home everyday from work is not going to STOP if you ignore them. Talk to someone about it, be it a friend or a teacher or a parent or anyone you can trust. "Just ignoring it" is not going to make any conflict or issue that you face go away. It only oversimplifies issues that need to be addressed.
If you ever come across people say phrases like this, make sure you either try to educate them about it, or avoid them. For your own sake.
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