Weep for joy

Experts say crying can do you a real favour

When was the last time you had a good old blub? Whether you burst into tears regularly or you only get misty-eyed when things get really tough, experts agree that crying is actually good for you. “Crying has a self-soothing effect, helping us regulate our emotions and feel a greater sense of calm,” explains Dr Elena Touroni, consultant psychologist and co-founder of

The Chelsea Psychology Clinic. “We also release cortisol and adrenaline when we cry, which is the body’s way of flushing out any excess stress hormones.”

And with one in four of us experiencing mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression, there’s never been a better time to grab a box of tissues and sob your heart out.

So here’s everything you need to know about having a bawl...