I’m struggling with this deep sadness that I can’t pinpoint. Usually I understand my sadness, but not being able to trace where this is coming from makes it feel worse. Maybe it’s connected to the approaching Yom Kippur and something spiritual, but I’m not sure what exactly. The tears keep coming, and along with the sadness, I’m feeling on edge, uneasy, and physically sick to my stomach. What is this?

I’m sorry for what you’re going through.

If you’ve eliminated other physical and mental causes, then yes, perhaps it is a soul-related sadness. Obviously, you should seek help if you think it’s more of a health/psychological problem. 

But maybe your instincts are correct and it’s your soul. Not everyone will understand this. 

What to do? Let yourself feel it. Cry it out. Don’t worry about understanding it or tying it to a logical reason. But you can tell your pain, “I’m here, what would you like to tell me?” It’s a part of you that simply wants to be heard and welcomed, so you should do just that. 

I’m not saying this process will be easy or short. You should probably try and find some time when you can be alone and not disturbed. But after you have done it and allowed yourself to sit with the pain and feel it, you should have some more clarity and feel lighter, G-d willing.