Researchers have proven what many caregivers have already figured out on their own: Sometimes there’s nothing like a good cry to make you feel better. While society often callously considers shedding tears to be a sign of weakness, it is a cathartic experience and highly evolved behavior.Neuroscientist Dr.

William H. Frey II, PhD, founder and co-director of the Alzheimer’s Research Center at Regions Hospital in St. Paul, Minnesota, has spent over 20 years studying crying and tears.According to Frey, “Crying is not only a human response to sorrow and frustration, it’s a healthy one.

” It is a natural way to reduce emotional stress that, if left unchecked, can have negative physical effects on the body, including increased risk of cardiovascular disease and other stress-related disorders. In addition to the physical benefits, research shows that 85 percent of women and 73 percent of men feel less sad and angry after shedding some tears.How Crying Is Good for YouIt Relieves StressChronic stress can increase the risk of heart attack, damage certain areas of the brain, contribute to digestive issues like ulcers, and cause tension headaches and migraines, among other health issues. “Humans’ ability to cry has survival value,” Frey emphasizes. While crying may not be as effective as respite care, most family caregivers could use a bit of stress relief.

Crying Lowers Blood PressureCrying has been found to lower blood pressure and pulse rate immediately following therapy sessions during which patients cried and vented. High blood pressure can damage your heart and blood vessels and contribute to stroke, heart failure and even dementia.Tears Remove ToxinsIn addition, Frey says crying actually removes toxins from the body. Tears help humans eliminate chemicals like cortisol that build up during emotional stress and can wreak havoc on the body. Crying is both a physical and emotional release that helps humans start over with a blank slate.It Reduces ManganeseThe simple act of crying also reduces the body’s manganese level, a mineral which affects mood and is found in significantly greater concentrations in tears than in blood serum.

Elevated levels can be associated with anxiety, irritability and aggression.Embrace Your Emotions and HumanityWhile the eyes of all mammals are moistened and soothed by tears, only human beings shed tears in response to emotional stress. Crying acknowledges the feelings you’re experiencing, and emotions motivate us to empathize, coordinate and work as a unit to best survive. In fact, crying serves an important social function. It helps communicate the strength and nature of relationships, elicit sympathy and draw individuals closer to one another.

The next time you’re feeling overwhelmed and fighting back tears, do yourself a favor and keep these points in mind. Finding a quiet place to decompress or a supportive should to cry on might be exactly what you need.