“You’ve Got This”

Is this appropriate to say to someone? How do you/we know the mental health state of an individual facing a challenge? Personally, I violently dislike this phrase and don’t use it ever.

During the early days of the pandemic, it was used ad nauseum. You’ve got this, we’ve got this etc. just made those of us struggling feel less than, weak and generally useless. The phrase is meant to encourage and support but I argue that in many cases it causes more harm than good.

Don’t get me wrong I am all for cheer leading. I was a cheer leader in high school and we won a provincial competition but I digress. I believe it is far more important to listen and support than cheer someone without any thought to the consequences.

I’m being a nudge I know but think about what you are saying and to whom.