Is it harmful to the body to frequently feel sad, upset, and cry?

Nov 17, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Baohua
Introduction
Whether frequently feeling sad and crying is harmful to the body depends on the frequency and intensity. Occasional crying to release emotions is harmless and can even help relieve stress. However, prolonged and frequent intense crying, along with persistent immersion in negative emotions, can damage both mental and physical health. In daily life, it's important to learn how to regulate emotions. When feeling sad, try talking to someone or exercising to release stress, rather than remaining in a state of sorrow for extended periods.

Whether frequently feeling sad and crying is harmful to the body depends on the frequency and intensity. Occasional crying to release emotions is not harmful and can even help relieve stress; however, prolonged and frequent intense crying, along with continuously dwelling on negative emotions, can damage both mental and physical health.

Crying occasionally due to sadness can help expel stress hormones from the body and alleviate negative emotions, preventing the buildup of psychological pressure. In such cases, once emotions are released, the body gradually returns to a state of calm and does not suffer any health issues.

If one frequently experiences deep sorrow and cries over a long period, it may lead to autonomic nervous system dysfunction, causing problems such as insomnia and loss of appetite, and possibly lowering immunity. Persistent negative emotions can also affect cardiovascular health, leading to discomforts like palpitations and chest tightness, further increasing psychological burden.

In daily life, it's important to learn how to regulate emotions. When feeling sad, try talking to someone or exercising to relieve stress, avoiding prolonged immersion in grief. Cultivating hobbies and interests to shift focus and maintaining a positive mindset are essential for better overall mental and physical well-being.