We cry when we're sad because emotional tears can have a therapeutic effect, helping us feel better and serving as part of a healing process.
When we experience sadness, our bodies can produce emotional tears. These tears are chemically different from the tears we shed to lubricate our eyes. According to research, emotional tears contain higher levels of certain substances that play a role in our body's response to stress and pain.
The Composition of Emotional Tears
Emotional tears are unique. Unlike reflex tears (which clear irritants) or basal tears (which keep eyes moist), they carry specific compounds related to our emotional state.
- Stress Hormones: These tears contain more stress hormones, such as adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). Crying may be a way for the body to release excess stress chemicals, potentially reducing overall stress levels.
- Natural Painkillers: Emotional tears also contain natural painkillers, like leucine enkephalin. This opioid peptide might contribute to the feeling of relief or emotional numbness that some people experience after crying.
The Therapeutic Role of Crying
This specific composition suggests that emotional crying isn't just a reaction; it serves a function.
"A Good Cry"
The idea of "a good cry" is supported by the potential physiological effects. Releasing stress hormones and natural painkillers through tears is thought to contribute to feeling better emotionally and physically after crying.
- Emotional Release: Crying allows for a significant release of pent-up emotions and tension.
- Physiological Reset: The act of crying, including the deep breaths often taken while sobbing, can help regulate the nervous system.
Part of the Healing Process
Emotional crying is considered by some to be an integral part of the healing process after experiencing pain, loss, or sadness. By facilitating emotional release and potentially resetting the body's stress response, crying can help individuals move through difficult emotional states.
| Tear Type | Primary Function | Key Components (Emotional Tears) | Potential Role |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basal Tears | Lubrication, protection | Water, Mucin, Oils, Electrolytes, Antibodies | Eye health |
| Reflex Tears | Clearing irritants (smoke, dust) | Water, Antibodies, Enzymes | Eye protection |
| Emotional Tears | Emotional response | Water, Stress Hormones (e.g., ACTH), Natural Painkillers (e.g., leucine enkephalin) | Stress relief, healing |
In summary, crying when sad is a complex process involving the release of specific chemicals in emotional tears that may help reduce stress, provide natural pain relief, and support the body's effort to recover from emotional distress, often leading to a feeling of catharsis or relief.
