How Cancel Culture Is Killing Us: A Therapist’s Take on Connection, Compassion, and Growth

In our hyper-connected world, “cancel culture” has become a buzzword, often sparking intense debate. As a therapist, I’ve noticed how the dynamics behind cancel culture can impact mental health, relationships, and even the potential for growth. So what is cancel culture really doing to us?

1. The Quickness to Judge and Condemn

Cancel culture often thrives on swift judgment—sometimes without full context, nuance, or understanding. This quick-trigger condemnation can leave people feeling unheard, misunderstood, or unfairly labeled. For both those on the receiving and the observing end, this creates anxiety, mistrust, and division.

2. Fear of Making Mistakes

In a culture where one misstep can lead to public shaming and social exile, people become fearful of being authentic or vulnerable. Fear of judgment stifles honest conversations, limits growth, and encourages superficial interactions over real connection.

3. The Loss of Nuance and Forgiveness

Human beings are complex and make mistakes—that’s part of being human. Cancel culture’s “all or nothing” mindset often leaves little room for growth, learning, or forgiveness. Without space to acknowledge mistakes and change, we risk freezing people in their worst moments rather than encouraging evolution.

4. Impact on Mental Health

Both the “canceled” and those witnessing cancel culture can experience heightened stress, anxiety, and feelings of isolation. The threat of public shaming can damage self-esteem and lead to withdrawal or depression.

5. Undermining Community and Empathy

At its core, cancel culture can erode the very sense of community it claims to protect. When people are quick to exclude or shame, we lose opportunities for empathy, understanding, and healing. Connection is essential for mental health—and cancel culture often drives us apart.

How Can We Move Forward?

• Practice curiosity before judgment. Ask questions, seek context, and listen.

• Allow room for mistakes and growth. Embrace imperfection in ourselves and others.

• Foster compassion over condemnation. Recognize the humanity in everyone.

• Encourage open dialogue. Create safe spaces to discuss difficult topics without fear of immediate “canceling.”

In Closing

Cancel culture reflects real frustrations with injustice and harm—but its current form can sometimes hurt more than help. As a therapist, I encourage all of us to lean into empathy, patience, and the messy, beautiful process of growth and connection.