How Do You React To Someone Crying?

Crying is a great way to release a variety of emotions

“People have said, don’t cry to others for years, and all it has ever meant is, ‘ I’m too uncomcortable when you show your feelings, don’t cry.’ I’d rather have them say, Go ahead and cry. I’m here to be with you.” ~Mr. Fred Rogers

Emotional Release

Crying has a bad reputation. If a man cries, he is perceived as weak. If someone cries often, they are judged as being overly emotional. And yet, we are told processing and expressing emotions is a sign of high emotional intelligence.

If I see a man cry, it tells me he is vulnerable, not weak. If he is crying in public, he is strong and capable of expressing himself rather than repressing the emotion or expressing it through anger, which often happens when someone does not know how to express sadness or fear.

When we see someone cry, why are we not asking if they need to talk? Why not offer a tissue? Do they need a hug? Are they going to be okay, or do they need help?

Most of us are uncomfortable with tears — let’s face it.

Yet, as babies we all cried. It was our only way to express every need we had. So why does it make us uncomfortable now?

The people blessed with the ability to cry to release frustration, fears, anger, and anxiety should be congratulated. When someone is so elated with joy, they cry that is beautiful. It is not only a sign of high emotional intelligence but also keeps them physically healthy. Crying is a sign of your connection to self, to your soul.

“People cry not because they are weak. It is because they have been strong for too long.” ~Jonny Depp

When Crying Indicates Depression

If someone is crying, often accompanied by negative thoughts, they may want to look into therapy. They can also try cognitive reframing, positive distractions, or helping someone else to elevate their mood.

“People who experienced chronic anxiety, long periods of sadness and pessimism, unremitting tension or incessant hostility, relentless cynicism or suspiciousness, were found to have double the risk of disease — including asthma, arthritis, headaches, peptic ulcers, and heart disease.” ~Daniel Goleman

Crying often may be more than a release of emotion. It may signal a deeper problem. Observing the emotion and being aware of how you are feeling is always good.

Final Thoughts

Crying is not a sign of weakness. It is a healthy way to release emotions. It shows that you are connected to your higher self.

“There is perhaps no psychological skill more fundamental than resisting impulse. It is the root of all emotional self-control, since all emotions, by their very nature, lead to one or another impulse to act. The root meaning of the word emotion is to move.” ~Daniel Goleman

The next time you see someone crying, show empathy and compassion. Who knows what hardship they may be experiencing? Regardless, it is not our place to judge. It is our duty as humans to be compassionate and kind. At least by releasing, they are starting to heal, one tear at a time.

Thank you for taking the time to read this. Please join me in my YouTube series to reduce anxiety and suffering by applying the ancient yoga principles of the 8 limbs of yoga to daily life.

Peace & Light,

Libby

Here are a few of the many articles that warmed my heart and inspired me this past week: Rick Allen, Dr. Preeti Singh, Warren Brown thank you for being such active supportive readers, but also creative and inspiring writers.