crying

Crying is the production of tears in response to emotional states or irritants. In humans, tears are produced by the lacrimal glands and drained through the nasolacrimal ducts. There are three broad types of tears: basal tears, which keep the eye moist; reflex tears, triggered by irritants such as smoke or wind; and emotional tears, produced in response to feelings. Emotional tears often differ in composition from basal tears, sometimes containing higher levels of proteins and hormones associated with stress.

Emotional crying serves several proposed functions. It can communicate distress, elicit caregiving or social support, and help regulate arousal. The act involves coordinated facial expressions, autonomic arousal, and endorphin release, which some people report as a sense of relief after crying. Tears also help lubricate and protect the eye.

Crying patterns vary across development and culture. Infants cry as a primary form of communication; adults may cry in situations of sadness, joy, frustration, or pain. Cultural norms influence when and how crying is expressed and perceived, with some societies viewing crying as a private act and others as an acceptable social signal.

Medical or psychological conditions can influence crying. Excessive or inappropriate crying can accompany mood disorders, neurological conditions, or certain medication effects. If crying becomes persistent or distressing, evaluation by a healthcare professional may be warranted, as it can reflect an underlying condition or significant emotional distress.