sadness
What Is It?
Sadness is a normal feeling we all have. It is emotional pain. It is a natural reaction to difficult situations.
Sadness can be from many things. It could be from losing something/someone, hurt feelings, or being left out. Sadness can also be from something going wrong. It could also be when something gets ruined or broken.
What Does It Feel Like?
Sadness can feel like:
- Crying
- Hurt feelings
- Your body is heavy
- There is a lump in your throat
- You are tired
- You are upset
- Unhappiness
- Low mood
- Disappointment
What Can You Do to Feel Better?
It is important to remind your child/youth (and yourself) that it is okay to be sad; it is about learning to feel and express the emotion in a healthy way. In addition to comforting your child, there are some things you can help your child/youth.
Things you can do:
- Take some slow deep breaths
- Read a book
- Watch a funny video
- Cry
- Draw/write it out
- Get active
- Name your feeling and talk to someone about it
- Think of things which make you happy
- Take a break from technology
- Be nice to oneself and others
- Talk to someone
- Cuddle a pet
- Go for a walk
- Listen to music
- Do something kind for someone else
Further Resources
All articles referenced above are collated here for your convenience and further reading:
Coping with Grief and Loss – HelpGuide.org
What does grief feel like? | Mind, the mental health charity – help for mental health problems
Dealing with Disappointment (hbr.org)
A Psychologist’s Advice on How to Deal with Disappointment (manhattancbt.com)
Goals of misbehavior – Part 4: Inadequacy – Early Childhood Development (msu.edu)
If you would like to speak to someone about mental health issues, the Alberta Health Services Mental Health Help Line is available 24/7, offering information and referrals on any aspect of mental health.
Call toll-free: 1-877-303-2642
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