We all have days when a cloud seems to hang over us. Sometimes, sadness hits us seemingly out of nowhere, unrelated to any clear event or circumstance. If you’ve ever found yourself feeling blue without an obvious reason and it makes you wonder if it is normal. Let us break it to you that it is.
In an exclusive interaction, we asked our expert Dr Nikhil Nayar, Psychiatrist, Sharda Hospital - Noida, what might be causing these feelings and he explained to us the psychology behind these moments of unexplained sadness. Here is what he shared with us.
Science Behind Unexplained Sadness And Emotions
Emotions have many factors such as brain chemicals, environment, and personal life, which bring about the basic nature of a person's life. According to a study published in the Romanian Journal of Morphology and Embryology, changes in neurotransmitters could lead to swings in mood. “These sometimes trigger a case of sadness without any reason or cause. All these chemical balances may be set off by a change in hormonal balance, or even stress at work, and lack of sleep among others,” the journal states.
Common Causes Of Unexplained Sadness
Despite the mystery that surrounds the explanation for unexplained sadness, one or more of the following may have a hand. Here’s what Dr Nayar highlighted to us:
1. Biological Factor
Hormonal imbalances, as from the menstrual cycle or alterations in thyroid activity, can impact one's mood.
2. Stress and Tiredness
Although a person might not be aware that they are suffering from stress, constant overextension or lack of rest may contribute to an emotionally weighted feeling.
3. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
For some, changes in seasons and less exposure to sunlight may cause mood changes.
4. Subconscious Triggers
Memories, unresolved emotions or lack of closure may be triggered without your knowledge, resulting in subtle emotional responses.
Is It Normal To Be Sad For No Reason?
More often than you may think, it happens. Feeling sad for no apparent reason is a common phenomenon in human experience. It is completely normal if it comes and goes here and there. However, if these feelings linger for weeks or interfere with your daily activities, it may indicate an underlying condition such as depression or anxiety that needs attention.
What You Can Do To Avoid Unexplained Sadness
If you find yourself feeling sad without any obvious cause, the following can be done:
- Acknowledge your feelings
- Practice self-care like skin care, dancing or hitting the gym
- Reach out to friends and family to vent
- Seek help from a mental health professional if needed
While it is normal to feel sad sometimes, it is crucial to tune into your emotions and notice patterns. Reflect on what might be contributing to your mood. Journaling, mindfulness practices, or even tracking your emotions with an app can help you gain insight.
Bottomline
Unexplained sadness reminds us of the complexity of our emotions. It is a signal from your body and mind to stop, reflect, and care for yourself. Knowing that these moments are a normal part of life, and taking proactive steps when necessary, can empower us to navigate the ups and downs of your emotional world with resilience.