Things Expressing Sadness

Sadness can often be equated with feeling a sense of loss. Whether it be the loss of a loved one through death, the disintegration of a relationship or the loss a beloved pet, the sense of loss can often be unbearable. It sometimes leads to depression. Even if it is tolerable, outward expressions of sadness will be evident for a period of time.

Tears

• Tears are the most obvious outward manifestation of sadness. Part of the emotional response to loss is crying. Crying relieves the stress of sadness in a physical way, allowing the individual to cope with the loss. The reason for crying when someone is sad has not yet been determined, but the physiological response of tears is the most notable indication that someone is feeling the emotion of sadness. Tears are often accompanied by several predictable body movements. The person may experience trembling lips, a downward slope to the mouth or rapid blinking of the eyelids.

Lethargy

• Often an individual experiencing feelings of sadness may present as lethargic. Lethargy is a loss of interest in daily activities and the lack of desire to participate in regular routines. A lethargic individual may move slower than usual, show a marked loss of posture and speak in emotionless tones. Sadness can drain the body of energy to do even ordinary tasks.

Other Body Expressions

• Sadness may sometimes be expressed when a person appears to be emotionless. The face of a sad person may appear to have no expression, even when engaged in an exchange with another person. The individual may be preoccupied and therefore not attentive to conversations. A sad person may also feel as though she is having difficulty breathing and will demonstrate this by gasping for air or clutching at the chest.