20 ways characters can show sadness without saying it
Habits change: suddenly no energy or motivation to do so.
Rereading old texts from someone that used to be special.
They let their hot drinks go cold beside them.
They apologize for things that aren’t their fault.
They linger after everyone else has already left.
They keep checking the door wishing that anyone will walk through.
They sit in parked cars for a long time before going inside.
Avoiding eye contact; gaze never lingers for long. Staring at the floor, instead of at people.
Rubbing the back of their necks or holding one arm with the other. Closed body language & posture shrinks.
They take deep breaths like they’re steadying themselves.
Hesitation before letting go of a hug.
Movements feel slower than usual.
Trembling fingers and limbs and shaky breath.
Sitting on the shower floor, contemplating.
Voice cracks when they speak & hesitate before responding to simple questions.
Avoidance and deflection when speaking such as “It doesn’t matter now” / “Don’t worry about it” / “I just need some sleep.”
Lingering in doorways instead of entering or lingering at the edge of the group.
Sleeping with noise or lights on to avoid feeling alone. Or as a distraction.
Fixating on small, meaningless tasks to keep busy.
A smile when being spoken to, but it fades when the other person looks away.
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