Psychologists and researchers have long known that crying can be healthy. It can provide a release and leads to a feeling of catharsis (from the Greek word for “cleansing” or “purging"). Most of us know that feeling of relief that follows a “good cry.”

But some instances of crying are healthier than others:

• Crying in the company of others who support you will make you feel better than crying alone.

• Crying after you’ve solved a problem — tears of relief — will make you feel better than crying before you’ve solved a problem.

• Crying at the wrong time or in the wrong place, can actually make you feel worse. For instance, if crying in front of work colleagues or strangers will embarrass you, it’s better to find a private place to shed your tears (but bring along a friend or supportive relative if you can).

For more information, read, “Is Crying Healthy?”