2. “Calm down, you’re overreacting.”
Anyone who’s been on the receiving end of this one knows how frustrating it can be — it’s dismissive to the point of being downright gaslighting. “Defensiveness is a maladaptive communication strategy,” says Catherine Nobile, Psy.D., psychologist and owner/director of Nobile Psychology
So, it is impossible to overreact, and calmness is bad? Or, if either of those things are valid (i.e. “true”), then it should not be said. In other words, humor the person who acting crazy? Basically, reward their insanity? No.
I always say, “Don’t get nervous.”
Couldn’t agree more. I have no desire fight imaginary dragons, unless they are mine.
I use “Relax”, it will raise the hackles of every woman.
Instead of “calm down” I just say “It’s OK. A few more days it’ll all be better.”
She realizes what I mean as I am sure most everyone else does too.