How do you deal with negative comments on social media?

I use to struggle with knowing when to react. Now that I have had more interactions, now I know when I should either ignore a negative comment and either delete or block a person. Or try to have a little bit work maybe this person is unaware and we can actually have positive dialogue. So I think it’s a mix sometimes ignore and delete sometimes try to have an open conversation. It’s all up to the individual and the situation.

If they are obviously trolls, or completely closed off to discussion, I normally block them. If they are making points I may disagree with, or just find overly negative even if I disagree, I try to reference facts that lead to hope or positivity, or politely give a different opinion, with reasons.

If someone takes the time and energy to send me a response the least I can do is engage and try to establish a civil dialog. I f it's negative, well where are they coming from. Empathy and compassion come in many forms. It is better for me to understand and learn from every interaction. Good or bad.

It’s not something I experience often, but occasionally I’ll receive comments such as, “It’s just arthritis,” or “It’s only joint pain.” I try not to take those comments personally because unless someone has lived with a chronic condition, they may not fully understand the daily challenges that can come with it.

I choose to respond with understanding and continue focusing on the positive impact advocacy can have. There will always be different opinions, but I don’t allow negative comments to distract me from what matters most—being a blogger, advocate, health leader, and patient advocate for those living with conditions such as osteoarthritis, osteonecrosis, and spondylolysis.

It’s important to me that people living with these conditions know they are seen, heard, and understood. Building a supportive community where people feel less alone is what truly matters.
Deb Andio