When is it better to cry?

[Lizzytish1313]

The last time I reached out was disappointing, but I have another question. Perhaps somebody in the community will answer with a little more compassion than my last question generated. Okay, so when we're brokenhearted, does crying serve any therapeutic purpose? I'm wondering if I don't feel less depressed when I don't yield to tears. Then I wonder what happens if I stuff these feelings?

I work that gratitude list like you wouldn't believe. The gratitude list is what's kept me from absolute despair. That technique is simply about working a word or two like "gratitude," "peace," "love," even "beauty" and there are others, but "gratitude" is best... the technique works, these words are powerful (I call them "depression suppressants," lol) but I'm wondering about the need to cry. Does that dam of tears just behind my eyes have to break ... be given voice and space ... to go away? Or will it ever go away? I would really like it to go away.

[Lizzytish1313]

Thanks for the thoughtful response. My current treatment plan includes anti-depressant medication, but as I expressed in another post, I haven't been successful in finding a good therapist that takes my insurance, I'm pretty sure I need talk therapy again for a little while. I practice meditation (Vipassana technique) and that gratitude thing I described was taught to me by a cognitive brain therapist ... he described the use of those power words as an "emotional gym" and the practice as a mind workout. I like it. I use it. Yes, I think you're right, I certainly need a therapist.

[CRSeaside]

Hi Lizzy. I think crying stimulates endorphins. Those feel good chemicals in the brain.
A good psychologist can also teach you cbt. Cognitive brain therapy.

[nursegirl6572]

I don't think there is any one right or wrong answer to this question.  It all depends on the person, the situation, etc.  I personally feel that letting ourselves feel and display our emotions (within reason of course) is extremely cathartic and helpful.  

I definitely wouldn't recommend stuffing the feelings, and trying to ignore the urge to let out the feelings of sadness when they strike.  

The gratitude list is great, but if you feel you're white knuckling it through life, maybe it's time for some changes to your treatment plan?  What IS your current treatment plan?