Not Gon' Cry?: Exploring the Mental Health Benefits of Crying

Crying is often seen as a sign of weakness. Many people struggle with this perception while trying to build emotional resilience. But what if we looked at crying in a different way? Instead of viewing tears as merely a response to sadness, what if we recognized them as a powerful tool to enhance our emotional health. In this post, we will explore the hidden strengths of crying and reveal its psychological benefits.

The Physiology of Crying

When we cry, our bodies experience several physiological changes. Tears come in three varieties: basal, reflex, and emotional. Basal tears keep our eyes moist, while reflex tears act to wash away irritants. Emotional tears are particularly significant as they are tied to profound feelings like sorrow, joy, and frustration.

Research indicates that emotional tears can help reduce stress by lowering cortisol, the body’s main stress hormone. For instance, one study discovered that participants reported a decrease in cortisol levels by 30% after crying. This release of stress hormones can bring a sense of calm and clarity, enhancing our emotional well-being.

Crying as a Form of Release

Emotional tears are a valuable outlet for pent-up feelings. Allowing ourselves to cry can help us unburden our minds from conflicting emotions. Whether we are grieving, frustrated, or overwhelmed with joy, tears enable us to confront and acknowledge our feelings, facilitating emotional healing.

Consider this: after a good cry, many people describe feeling lighter and more at peace. This release acts like an emotional reset button. By crying, individuals can better process their emotions, turning difficult experiences into manageable ones.

The Social Benefits of Crying

Crying can also strengthen social connections and increase empathy. When we cry in front of others, we display vulnerability, which can enhance our relationships with family and friends. For example, a study found that people who witnessed others cry were more likely to offer support and share their own feelings. This creates a nurturing environment where emotions are expressed openly without judgment.

The Therapeutic Aspect of Crying

Many therapists encourage crying as a valuable therapeutic tool. Expressing our emotions through tears can lead to significant insights and healing. Crying reminds us that feeling is a natural and important human response. It can signify the need for help or simply acknowledge our emotions.

By accepting crying as a healthy outlet, individuals can address unresolved feelings. If left unaddressed, these feelings can lead to anxiety or depression. For example, studies have shown that individuals who regularly allow themselves to cry have fewer symptoms of depression compared to those who bottle up their emotions.

Embracing the Power of Tears

Crying is a natural process that is associated with a number of mental health benefits. Instead of linking tears with weakness, we should recognize them as a means of emotional regulation and healing. So with all due respect to Mary J., we may actually have far more to gain than lose by embracing this natural process. She may be right that someone else isn't worth your tears, but you are!

Music Behind the Message

Written by the legendary Babyface and featured on the Waiting to Exhale soundtrack, this song became a #1 hit for the Queen of R&B. Click below to hear this soulful ballad which also served as inspiration for this blog.

Not Gon' Cry- Mary J. Blige (1996)