2025 Guide: Discover the Mental Health Benefits of Crying and Its Surprising Effects

Rachael Green, a seasoned New York-based writer for Verywell Mind, draws on extensive personal experience and research in mental health—especially ADHD and depression—to provide insights on emotional well-being.

Humans are unique among species for shedding emotional tears. While many animals produce tears to protect their eyes, only humans cry in response to feelings. This distinct behavior raises the question: why do we cry emotionally, and what benefits does it offer our mental health?

Scientific studies confirm that tears help maintain eye health by lubricating and protecting against bacteria. However, recent research reveals that emotional crying plays a crucial role in managing psychological stress and enhancing mood. Here are key mental health benefits of crying uncovered by science:

Eliminates Stress Hormones

Crying helps reduce stress by flushing cortisol—the body's primary stress hormone—out through tears. Moreover, the act of crying may signal the body to decrease cortisol production overall, leading to a natural reduction in stress levels.

Triggers Mood-Enhancing Hormones

Beyond removing stress hormones, emotional crying stimulates the release of oxytocin and endorphins. Oxytocin fosters feelings of calmness and social connection, while endorphins elevate mood, boost self-esteem, and alleviate anxiety.

Provides Relief from Emotional and Physical Pain

Intense crying can prompt the release of natural opioids, which not only soothe physical pain but also regulate emotional distress, offering a comforting effect during difficult times.

Signals a Call for Empathy and Support

Crying serves as a vital social communication tool, signaling others that we need comfort. This often leads to empathy and support, reducing feelings of isolation and reinforcing our social bonds—essential components for mental wellness.

Helps Cool Down the Brain

Crying increases blood flow and breathing rate, which helps lower brain temperature. Since even slight rises in brain temperature can negatively affect mood, this cooling effect contributes to emotional relief.

Enhances Sleep Quality

Activating the parasympathetic nervous system, crying promotes relaxation and homeostasis after stress. This calming response, combined with the energy expenditure from crying, can make it easier to fall asleep and improve overall sleep quality—key for mental health.

Limitations for Those with Depression

While crying generally improves mood, research indicates that individuals with depression may experience diminished relief after crying or difficulty crying altogether, particularly in anhedonic depression where pleasure responses are impaired.

Alternative Mood-Boosting Techniques

If crying is challenging, consider these evidence-based strategies to achieve similar mental health benefits:

• Practice deep breathing exercises to lower brain temperature and promote calmness.
• Take walks in nature to release endorphins and reduce cortisol.
• Watch horror movies to activate the parasympathetic nervous system and experience relief.
• Try progressive muscle relaxation to alleviate anxiety and improve sleep.
• Seek companionship from friends to gain emotional support and reduce isolation.

Understanding the multifaceted benefits of crying can empower you to embrace this natural response as a healthy tool for emotional regulation and mental wellness.

For further reading, explore topics on Living Well, Stress Management, and Coping Techniques.

Sources: This article references peer-reviewed studies and expert insights to ensure accuracy and reliability in mental health information.

By Rachael Green
New York-based mental health writer specializing in ADHD and depression, committed to helping readers navigate their mental wellness journey.

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