Is It Okay to Cry? The Surprising Mental Health Benefits of Shedding a Tear

Crying is a human experience that often comes with an unspoken stigma. It's a natural reaction to feelings of joy, sadness, frustration, or even relief. Yet, how often do we hear phrases like, “Don’t cry,” or “There’s no need to be upset”? It’s high time we challenge the misconceptions surrounding crying and embrace it as a healthy emotional outlet. There are mental health benefits to crying. It is absolutely fine to let that shit out!

In this post, we will explore why it’s absolutely okay to let out your emotions through tears and the surprising advantages of crying that can improve your well-being. So grab a tissue (or not), and let’s dive into the world of tears!

The Science Behind Crying

Crying is one of our most basic forms of expression, but have you ever wondered why we cry? Researchers have identified three primary types of tears: basal tears, reflex tears, and emotional tears.

• Basal tears keep our eyes moist and healthy.

• Reflex tears protect us from irritants, like when we chop onions.

• Emotional tears are released when we experience strong feelings.

  
  

Interestingly, emotional tears contain more stress hormones compared to basal and reflex tears. This indicates that crying might play a critical role in helping us alleviate emotional distress and helping to improve our mental health. A study from Cryobiology highlighted that emotional tears can lower levels of cortisol, a primary stress hormone.

Emotional Release and Healing

Life can often lead us into overwhelming situations. Crying serves as a powerful emotional release, enabling us to process feelings that we might otherwise keep bottled up. Whether it's the end of a relationship, the passing of a loved one, or simply a challenging day, crying offers a safe way to confront and express those feelings.

Allowing yourself to cry can feel liberating. Many people find that after a good cry, they experience a sense of clarity and relief, as if a burden has been lifted, which assists with mental health. For instance, after losing a pet, many people find comfort in sharing their grief through tears, which facilitates healing.

Stress Relief

Crying also plays a beneficial role in reducing stress levels. When we cry, our bodies release hormones like oxytocin and endorphins, which promote feelings of well-being and relief.

Research from the University of Queensland found that crying can lead to a significant decrease in stress. The study showed that after crying, participants experienced a 10% reduction in the stress hormone cortisol. So, the next time tears well up, remember that crying could be your body’s way of counteracting stress. Give yourself permission to feel lighter and more at ease afterward.

Raindrops can symbolize the tears we shed.

Building Emotional Resilience

Crying can contribute to our emotional resilience over time. By allowing ourselves to genuinely feel and express our emotions, we gain a better understanding of ourselves. This self-awareness aids us in addressing future emotional challenges with increased confidence and grace.

When we embrace vulnerability through crying, we lay a foundation for emotional strength. For example, people who regularly express their feelings, including through tears, often report greater emotional stability during tough times.

Strengthening Connections

Have you noticed how crying can foster deeper emotional connections? Whether with friends, family, or within a community, sharing tears often leads to greater intimacy. When we show our authentic selves, we invite those around us to express their emotions too, creating a supportive environment.

Crying acts as a social signal, indicating our need for support and understanding. Recognising that it is okay to cry can unlock deeper connections and a stronger support system in our lives.

Crying and Physical Health

Beyond emotional relief, crying can positively impact our physical health. As mentioned earlier, emotional tears contain stress hormones and toxins that are expelled when we cry. This natural process helps detoxify our bodies and lowers physical stress levels.

Some studies suggest that regular crying might enhance our immune system, leading to fewer illnesses. For instance, a report from the Journal of Health Psychology indicated that individuals who allow themselves to cry report experiencing fewer colds and flu-like symptoms. So, if you feel the urge to cry, consider that it might be just what your body needs.

Waterfalls symbolize the release of pent-up emotions.

The Social Stigma Around Crying

Despite the numerous benefits associated with crying, a social stigma often leads individuals to feel ashamed or embarrassed about shedding tears. Phrases like “real men don’t cry” or “crying is a sign of weakness” can discourage emotional expression.

We should work to change this narrative! Crying should be viewed as a sign of courage instead of weakness. Recognising that everyone faces difficulties can bring us closer together and promote emotional honesty among friends and family.

Embracing Tears Authentically

Now that we've explored the benefits of crying, here are some suggestions to help you embrace your emotions more fully:

1. Give Yourself Permission: Allow yourself to cry without fear of judgment. Acknowledging that it is okay to let your emotions flow creates a liberating sense of freedom.

   
   

2. Create a Safe Space: Find a comfortable, quiet environment to be alone or with supportive friends when tears strike.

   
   

3. Express Yourself: Making use of a journal or discussing your feelings can provide additional outlets for emotional expression, making the act of crying more manageable.

   
   

4. Seek Support: Don't hesitate to reach out to friends or loved ones. Sharing your feelings can lighten the emotional load.

   
   

Lakes can be a peaceful place for self-reflection and emotional release.

Final Thoughts

In a society that makes you feel like pussy or inadequate for crying tell them screw you! I want to cry, I feel like I am going to cry and I will cry.

Crying is a sign of strength, a sign of courage it is not a weakness. It is your body's built in mechanism for healing itself. Release that pressure it is okay to cry and be your authentic self. It is a lot easier to be your authentic self than it is to be someone else.

Shedding a tear is not a sign of weakness but a powerful tool for emotional release, stress relief, and social connection.

When it feels like tears are going to flow do not hold back, remember the incredible benefits that can come from it. Embrace your tears as a beautiful part of your emotional journey, and don’t hesitate to let it out. You may just find it brings you closer to healing and self-discovery.