Few would argue that sadness is a pleasant emotion. Whether you are experiencing it yourself or witnessing someone close to you going through deep sadness, it can be challenging.
Sadness is a basic human emotion that occurs when we feel disappointed. That disappointment may be because you didn’t meet your own expectations or someone disappointed you. One of the most severe cases of sadness can be when someone we care about passes on.
Sadness can be confusing. People can be confused because of the severity of their sadness. Others may be confused because they may not feel as sad as they think they should.
But does sad have to be bad? Here are some aspects of sadness to consider.
Sadness is a Critical, Fundamental Emotion
Sadness is not unusual nor should it be unexpected. It is a normal, basic emotion. Even in the animated feature “Inside Out” the sadness character is a critical component of the emotional team and is even shown to be sympathetic and empathetic.
Sadness is a Way We Demonstrate We Care
At its foundation, we experience sadness because we care. In fact, the more we care, the more severe our sadness may be. That being said, not everyone expresses sadness on this level. It can confuse us because our sadness either surprises us in its intensity, or we may wonder why we don’t experience it more profoundly. Sometimes sadness takes time to sink in. Those not experiencing it may be in denial or subduing the emotion.
Sadness May Motivate Us
Many express sadness by using the emotion to honor a deceased loved one by creating a foundation, scholarship or starting a fundraiser in their honor. This is a productive way to express sadness.
Sadness Can Help Us in Maintaining Meaningful Relationships
When we share our sadness with others who feel similarly, it can help build and maintain deep-meaning relationships. This is another potentially positive aspect of sadness and sharing it with others. Along these lines, sadness can serve to compel us to stay in better contact with the friends we still have here.
While you shouldn’t be expected to succumb to the social pressures of “not being sad”, we also shouldn’t feel negative about not feeling deep sadness when perhaps we think we should. This can make you feel worse. Experience sadness on your level and how you truly feel. It is not about how others THINK you should experience. Own it.
If you have concerns about the intensity of your sadness at the loss of another or question your lack of sadness, ask yourself “Why”. Why do you feel the way you do? Explore that honestly with yourself. You just may find some answers.
At the Cremation Society of Northern Kentucky, we don’t just focus on the physical aspects of death, but the emotional aspect as well. We would be honored to serve you in your time of need. Please feel free to connect with us to get the answers to your questions.
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