Written by Online therapist Dr. Gloria Vanderhorst, Ph.D.

CRYING

Tears, Transition, and the Healing Power of Emotion

Crying isn’t weakness—it’s wisdom. For individuals in Maryland and DC, this reflection explores how tears mark life’s transitions, release emotional tension, and connect us to our deepest selves.

When a baby is born, they cry. Are they crying in anger, fear, shock, or grief? Maybe they are experiencing all of these at once. After all, they have just been pushed or pulled from a cozy environment where they were floating around in a bubble filled with liquid. Granted, the bubble is clearly crowded, and they should be ready to exit, but… the experience of protection and ease is inviting, and they may long to stay for an extended time. Alas, this is not possible. So out they come into this bright, chilly, chaotic delivery room.

Crying is a sign of life and is genuinely welcome. The delivery room staff says the more robust, the better. They like to see that baby protest the change with vigor, which makes me wonder how I react to change. We all tend to get comfy and cozy in our routines and favorite places. Like the infant in utero, we like our safe spaces and gravitate there when we need comfort or peace. For many of us, our beds are that comfort spot. Perhaps you have a sitting nook where you read, contemplate, or pray. Many take to the outdoors for comfort. A walk in the woods or hanging out by the neighborhood stream can bring peace. The water flow undoubtedly takes us back to that safe space in the womb.

Crying has a valuable place in our lives. Crying is a natural reaction to pain, both physical and mental. Tears serve to cleanse us and release the pain we are carrying inside. Some of us, men in particular, have learned to block that naturally healing reaction. The infant shows us how natural it is to cry under stress and change. Tears are nature’s healing mechanism. Tears help to open parts of us that have been contained, boxed, and sometimes forgotten. We were born with this capability, which is the first way we interact with the world around us. Tears should be welcomed and understood.

Tears are not just water. They are a complex mixture. Sure, water is primary, but did you know that tears also contain proteins, lipids, mucin, antibodies, stress hormones, and natural painkillers? Yikes! That is quite a list. Those things are complicated and designed for a variety of functions. It sounds to me like these are valuable. Perhaps facing change does deserve a good cry!

Want to explore how tears support emotional healing and resilience? Visit Psychology Today’s guide to emotional tears and trauma recovery, BetterHelp’s overview of crying therapy, and Inner Researcher’s reflections on the healing power of tears.

If you’re reflecting on emotional release, change, or resilience, therapy can help. Learn more about individual therapy in Maryland and DC or explore therapeutic approaches that support emotional insight and healing.