Vent your emotions by letting out a loud scream to release stress, but remember it’s not a long-term solution. (Getty Images by AaronAmat)Recently, a user on the AskLosAngeles subreddit asked for recommendations on where in LA they could scream loudly for emotional release. Feeling overwhelmed by stress, depression, and anger, they sought a safe space to let it all out before losing control. Responses varied, with suggestions such as screaming in the car, at the beach, Dodger Stadium, a punk rock show, or a rage room where one can vent by screaming and smashing things simultaneously. Some suggested screaming into the void during a quiet hike or into the ocean for a cathartic experience. Many people find screaming therapeutic, but does it truly benefit mental health? Experts say yes. Here’s why screaming can be helpful.
The act of screaming has been used as a mental health treatment for decades. Psychologist Arthur Janov introduced primal therapy in the 1960s, encouraging patients to scream to release pent-up emotions. When we experience intense emotions like anger, our limbic system is activated, leading to an adrenaline rush that tightens our vocal cords, making us yell louder. This physical response is a natural way to externalize and purge overwhelming feelings.
The benefits of screaming are multifaceted. It can help calm the nervous system by engaging the vagus nerve, leading to lower heart rate and blood pressure, and reducing the stress response. By releasing emotions through screaming, cortisol levels, a stress hormone, can decrease, providing temporary relief from anxiety. Additionally, screaming can trigger an endorphin release, similar to the effects of exercise, boosting mood and well-being.
While screaming can offer emotional release and stress relief, it’s important to be mindful of where and when you do it. While it may feel tempting to scream in public, it’s best reserved for appropriate settings to avoid alarming or disturbing others. Consider letting out a scream in the privacy of your car or another secluded spot where you can freely express your emotions without causing disruption.
Screaming is a method often used to express negative emotions and provide temporary relief. However, frequent screaming can have negative effects on your vocal cords, leading to issues such as laryngitis, inflammation, vocal fatigue, and more serious conditions like nodules or polyps. Even Hugh Jackman experienced voice damage from excessive yelling while portraying Wolverine. While screaming can be a cathartic release in certain situations, it should not be the sole method for coping with life’s challenges. It’s important to develop long-term stress management strategies to address underlying sources of stress and frustration. If you find yourself needing to scream often or struggling to control your emotions, seeking help from a therapist can offer valuable insights and support.
