Feeling anxious and sad is a normal part of life. However, if the anxiety and sadness lasts for more than two weeks or so, it may be a symptom of depression. Depression is linked to lots of health issues such as heart disease, hypertension, diabetes and panic disorders.
John E Mayer, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist and the author of Family Fit says “Individuals who are sad consume significantly more and fewer micronutrients, putting themselves at a higher risk for weight gain in the short term & hypertension and heart disease in the long term.”.
What are the results of sadness?
Failure to cope up with sadness bring higher stress on the body. Thus, it can result to:
Eating Disorder
• Having a feeling of sadness can lead to a negative self-image. People who are often sad are vulnerable to eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa and the like.
Compromised Immune Systems
• Researchers found out that sadness can weaken the body’s immunity leaving it more vulnerable to diseases like arthritis and multiple sclerosis. Negative emotions such as loneliness, anger, and trauma can release high levels of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. If the immune system is compromised, it reduces the ability to fight infections and heal wounds.
Risk of Self-Harm
• Being sad will result in depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. If not addressed correctly, people may harm themselves through substances, taking drugs, or worst is suicidal behavior.
There is no known on how to prevent a person from being sad. But it can be managed by:
• Manage your stress level.
• Engage yourself in physical activities.
• Avoid alcoholic beverages and drugs.
• Consider daily meditation.
• Let go of sad feelings
• Surround yourself with positive and happy people.
• Get enough sleep.
• Eat properly.
• Learn to forgive
• Seek the positive in life.
It may be hard to just let the sad feeling go away. But the fact that being sad can cause bad on you is enough reason to just be happy! Remember that it’s bad to be sad!
