Emotional outbursts without provocation: Advice, triggers, and strategies for managing them effectively
In life, our emotions can often be complex and unpredictable, and one such emotion is crying. While crying is a natural response to a wide range of situations, frequent and unexplained crying can be a cause for concern. This article aims to provide insights into the potential causes and what steps to take when experiencing such symptoms.
Firstly, it's important to note that physical health issues can sometimes be the culprit behind unexplained crying. If a doctor suspects a physical health problem, they can provide a diagnosis and treatment. Conditions such as thyroid dysfunction, nutrient deficiencies, or hormonal imbalances can all contribute to frequent crying [1][2].
On the other hand, emotional factors also play a significant role. Stress, anxiety, and hormonal changes are common triggers for crying. Emotional triggers may not always be obvious because crying can be a response to stored emotional memories or accumulated emotional overwhelm [1].
One neurological condition that can increase a person's propensity to cry is Pseudobulbar affect (PBA). This condition occurs due to a disconnect between the frontal lobes of the brain and the cerebellum and brain stem. PBA can be caused by a stroke, dementia, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, multiple sclerosis, or Parkinson's disease [1].
If you find yourself experiencing crying that is frequent, uncontrollable, and occurs for no apparent reason, interferes with your ability to do everyday things, or occurs alongside other physical, emotional, or psychological symptoms, it may be a good idea to speak with a doctor. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Active Minds, Mental Health America, local mental health organizations, and support groups can offer resources and support for mental health issues that may cause frequent crying [1].
If the doctor believes that you may have an underlying mental health issue, they may refer you to a psychiatrist or psychotherapist. Symptoms of complicated or unresolved grief, such as emotional numbness, intense emotional pain, feelings of personal blame or guilt, feeling isolated or detached from others, a loss of identity or purpose, a feeling that life is meaningless or empty, and suicidal thoughts, may require professional help [1].
It's essential to remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you find yourself struggling with frequent and unexplained crying, don't hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional. They can help identify the root cause and develop coping strategies to manage these symptoms effectively. Medical evaluation may also be necessary to rule out physical or hormonal causes [1][2][3].
Strategies to stop crying might include pressing the tongue to the roof of the mouth, relaxing the facial muscles, pinching the skin between the thumb and forefinger, and deep breathing exercises. However, these techniques are temporary solutions and addressing the underlying cause is key to long-term relief [1].
Lastly, it's important to remember that grief is a process that occurs when someone loses someone or something important to them. Crying is often part of the grief process, and it's essential to allow yourself to feel and express your emotions in a healthy and supportive environment.
References: [1] Mayo Clinic. (2020). Pseudobulbar affect. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pseudobulbar-affect/symptoms-causes/syc-20354248 [2] National Institute of Mental Health. (2021). Depression. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression/index.shtml [3] American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.
- Unexplained crying can sometimes be a symptom of physical health issues, such as thyroid dysfunction, nutrient deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, or diabetes.
- Stress, anxiety, and bipolar disorder can also contribute to frequent crying, as they are emotional factors that may not always be obvious.
- Pseudobulbar affect (PBA), a neurological condition, can increase a person's propensity to cry and is often caused by a stroke, dementia, multiple sclerosis, or Parkinson's disease.
- If crying is frequent, uncontrollable, and interferes with everyday activities, it may be a sign of an underlying mental health issue like depression or anxiety, and speaking with a doctor is recommended.
- Mental health organizations, such as the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, local mental health organizations, and support groups, offer resources and support for those struggling with mental health issues that may cause frequent crying.
- A psychiatrist or psychotherapist may be referred if a doctor suspects an underlying mental health issue, and coping strategies, like deep breathing exercises, may provide temporary relief, but addressing the root cause is key to long-term relief.
