Emotional tears are a type of tear produced in response to strong feelings, such as sadness, joy, or frustration. Unlike reflex tears, which protect the eyes from irritants, emotional tears contain higher levels of stress hormones and other chemicals. This suggests that crying may help the body process emotions and relieve stress. Research indicates that emotional tears can foster social connections and empathy. When people cry, it often elicits support and comfort from others, strengthening relationships. This phenomenon highlights the role of crying in human communication and emotional expression, making it a unique aspect of the human experience.