SADNESS
Sight
- Dimmed lighting or overcast skies
- Tear-streaked faces or puffy, red eyes
- Slumped posture or slow, aimless movements
- Faded colors or a lack of vibrancy in the surroundings
- Abandoned or neglected spaces, like empty parks or unkempt rooms
Sound
- Soft, muffled cries or sniffles
- Heavy sighs or deep, slow breaths
- Silence or a noticeable lack of noise
- Distant, melancholic music or a slow, somber melody
- The sound of rain tapping against the window
Smell
- The stale air of a closed room
- The faint scent of used tissues or damp clothing
- Mustiness of neglected spaces
- The sharpness of a cold outdoor breeze
Touch
- The weight of a heavy blanket or clothing
- The coldness of tears on cheeks
- A noticeable chill in the air, making the skin prickle
- The texture of crumpled tissues or a worn-out comfort object like a stuffed animal
Taste
- The blandness or lack of flavor in food
- A metallic or dry taste in the mouth
- The warmth or bitterness of a comfort drink like herbal tea or black coffee
Internal Sensations
- Emotional Pain: A profound sense of loss or disappointment can lead to feelings of emotional pain or emptiness.
- Cognitive Symptoms: Difficulty concentrating, persistent negative thoughts, self-criticism, or feelings of worthlessness.
- Physical Symptoms: A sensation of heaviness in the body, particularly in the chest or stomach. Some people might also experience fatigue, headaches, or changes in appetite.
- Reduced Motivation: A lack of interest in activities that normally bring joy, which can lead to withdrawal from social interactions.
- Tearfulness: An increased inclination to cry, which can occur with little to no provocation.
External Sensations
- Facial Expressions: Frowning, a furrowed brow, downturned corners of the mouth, and less frequent blinking.
- Body Language: Slumped shoulders, decreased energy, slow movements, and a tendency to look down rather than at others.
- Vocal Changes: Speaking in a lower, quieter tone; speech may be slower and less animated than usual.
- Social Withdrawal: Pulling away from friends and family, preferring to be alone.
- Tears: The visible manifestation of crying, which can be accompanied by sobbing or sniffing.