Why Am I So Tired After Crying?

Crying can leave you feeling drained, both physically and emotionally. This fatigue often stems from a combination of biological responses and the energy required for emotional processing.

Why Crying Makes You Tired

When you cry, your body releases prolactin, a hormone that promotes feelings of sleepiness. This hormone is also released after orgasm, linking emotional release to physical fatigue. Additionally, the surge of cortisol and adrenaline during emotional moments can lead to a crash, leaving you feeling exhausted once the intensity fades.

The physical act of crying involves tension in your face and chest muscles, which can contribute to overall fatigue. Dehydration from tears can also play a role, as losing fluids can sap your energy levels. Furthermore, the body's response to emotional stress activates the sympathetic nervous system, followed by a parasympathetic rebound, which leads to a state of relaxation and tiredness.

Lastly, the energy cost of processing emotions can be significant. Engaging with your feelings requires mental and physical resources, which can leave you feeling worn out after a good cry. This combination of hormonal, physical, and emotional factors explains why you may feel so tired after crying.

How Long Does It Last?

The tiredness after crying typically lasts for a few hours, but this can vary based on factors such as the intensity of the emotional experience and individual resilience. Adequate rest and hydration can help speed up recovery.

What Actually Helps

• Rest and sleep to allow your body to recover.
• Stay hydrated to replenish lost fluids.
• Engage in light physical activity to release tension.
• Practice deep breathing or mindfulness to calm your mind.

Related

• Tired after an argument
• Anxiety and fatigue
• Grief fatigue
• How to stop feeling tired all the time

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I feel so emotionally drained after crying?

Emotional drainage after crying is often due to the significant energy expenditure involved in processing your feelings. This can lead to fatigue as your body and mind work to recover from the emotional release.

Is it normal to feel physically tired after crying?

Yes, it's normal to feel physically tired after crying. The hormonal changes, muscle tension, and dehydration from tears all contribute to a sense of fatigue, making it a common experience.

When should I see a doctor about this fatigue?

If tiredness during or after crying is severe, prolonged beyond what seems reasonable, or accompanied by other symptoms, it is worth a GP conversation. Persistent fatigue that does not resolve with rest can have underlying causes — a blood test is a useful starting point.