There, there. Let it all out.

How do you feel after a good, hard cry? For many of us, there’s a deep sense of relief—physically, emotionally, even spiritually—when we’re able to let our tears flow freely. Yet how many times have you been called a “crybaby” or scolded for crying? For many, especially in childhood, that response to tears was all too familiar.

Crying is a healthy, physiological response to built-up stress and emotion. It's one of the ways our bodies release stress hormones and restore a sense of calm. Tears can even trigger the release of endorphins, our body’s natural mood boosters. So yes—crying is good for you. And no, there’s no shame in it.

When a child is told to stop crying—whether through words, time-outs, or punishment—the message they may internalize is that expressing intense emotion is wrong or unlovable. The underlying message becomes: “I don’t like you when you cry.” Over time, this creates a narrative of shame around vulnerability and makes it harder to develop healthy emotional regulation.

Maybe you were that child. If so, be gentle with yourself. You are not too much. Your feelings are not wrong. You are worthy of love—even in your most tearful, tender moments.

So let the tears come when they need to. And when they do, try not to face them alone. Find a safe person—a therapist, a friend, your mom, or anyone who can simply sit with you without trying to fix you. Sometimes the most healing thing is simply having someone stay close while you feel.

Tears don’t make you weak—they’re proof you’re human. And being human is nothing to be ashamed of.

By Mannon Christianson