Scientists revealed why we cry from happiness

Bristol University researchers have revealed the secret of "tears of joy": the brain activates a protective mechanism during emotional overload. This is reported by The Conversation portal.

According to a new study, regardless of the emotional coloring of experiences, tears appear at the moment when the limbic system - the emotional center of the brain - becomes overwhelmed with feelings. This process involves a whole complex of structures: the amygdala, hypothalamus, and anterior cingulate gyrus, which jointly trigger the process of tear secretion during intense emotional surges.

"Tears are the brain's way of saying: 'Stop, I can no longer process this,'" the neurobiologists emphasized.

When reaching an emotional peak, whether it's incredible joy or deep sadness, the body automatically activates a kind of "emergency valve" - crying. This mechanism activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which slows down the heartbeat and returns the body to a state of balance.

Interestingly, "happy tears" are almost never caused exclusively by joy. Most often they arise from a complex combination of emotions: pride, nostalgia, relief, or even mild sadness. A vivid example is parents at their child's graduation, simultaneously experiencing delight and a light longing for the passing childhood.

The hippocampus, responsible for the formation and storage of memories, enhances this effect by retrieving past difficulties or losses from memory. That is why in particularly touching moments we feel a characteristic lump in our throat - our brain connects current joy with emotional experiences from the past.

Scientists also noted that the inability to hold back tears likely evolved as an important communication tool and a way to strengthen social bonds. Research confirms: crying people are significantly more likely to receive support from others, regardless of the reason for their tears.