Consider our ancient ancestors living close-knit tribes, where strong bonds were vital for survival. In those times, when someone faced loss or adversity, they experienced a sense of melancholy. This emotional state might have been an adaptive signal, indicating that something needed attention and support was required. Mutual care was essential for the community's wellbeing, which is why our species endured through time. Sadness, as all human emotion serves a multifaceted function crucial for the survival and advancement of our lineage.
When observing expressions of sadness in others, mirror neurons activate and facilitate the simulation of similar emotions within ourselves. This neural mechanism gives rise to shared emotional understanding and interpersonal connection. When we observe sadness in others, it is a rare opportunity to deepen bonds and foster connection. A parallel can be drawn to the role of oxytocin, a hormone pivotal in fostering social bonds among mammals. Its capacity to facilitate instinctive maternal responses and perpetuate species survival underscores its evolutionary importance. Put simply, sadness is not designed to be dealt with on our own.
The trajectory of societal development has inevitably transformed the lens through which sadness, and all emotion is perceived. Despite the growth of global connections, emotional ties have weakened in the digital age. We are encouraged to confront sadness alone, sidelining vulnerability as we pursue personal success. This transformation shifted sadness from a unifying force to a source of shame and vulnerability.
However, there is reason for optimism. We can reignite a sense of unity in our personal lives, cultivating experiences where empathy takes precedence over the idea of individual resilience. This honors the strength in vulnerability and the simple fact that we all desire connection, attention and attunement in our relationships.
We must accept that as mammals, emotion is in our nature and instances of sadness will frequently arise. Instead of dismissing them, we can leverage them for connection. Recognising that this emotion has always played a significant role in our survival, we can use it to strengthen relationships and deepen bonds. By offering support and openly sharing our emotional experiences, we create opportunity for acceptance in our most raw and vulnerable form.
Katerina Nemcova
Clinical Psychologist
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