Crying is a natural human response to a range of emotions, not just sadness. It’s a common activity, with women crying an average of 3.5 times a month and men about 1.9 times. Far from being a sign of weakness, crying offers several benefits for both physical and mental health.

One of the key benefits of crying is its ability to relieve stress. When under pressure, the body releases the hormone cortisol, which can be harmful if it builds up over time. Crying helps to lower cortisol levels, reducing stress and releasing hormones that act as a sedative, creating a sense of calm. Crying also activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps the body to rest and digest, further relieving stress symptoms.

Beyond stress relief, tears contain lysozyme, a fluid with antimicrobial properties that help to kill bacteria and keep the eyes clean. Crying can also help to remove toxins from the body. Emotional tears, in particular, contain higher levels of stress hormones and other chemicals that are flushed out during crying.

This process of releasing toxins can contribute to an improved mood and overall sense of well-being. Crying can also act as a self-soothing mechanism1. It helps individuals regulate their emotions, calm themselves, and reduce distress.

The act of crying can also help people gain support from others, as it communicates a need for comfort and empathy. Alllowing yourself to cry can help you acknowledge emotions you may not have fully recognized, leading to a greater sense of calm.

In conclusion, crying is more than just an emotional release; it’s a mechanism that offers tangible benefits for both the body and mind. From reducing stress and killing bacteria to relieving pain and improving mood, crying is a healthy and natural response that should not be suppressed.

So, the next time you feel the need to cry, allow yourself to do so, and recognize it as a beneficial and healthy activity.