Crying...

[luamber]

I'm very contented at the moment and have everything and everyone I could wish for.  That said, I've always been an emotional person and can cry at the drop of a hat, usually when I'm happy - it's not a big problem but I've got a few big events coming up and don't want to be in tears throughout!  Does anyone know of any techniques that can stop my sobbing, or at least control it?!  Thanks!

[andy hughes]

Try to take your mind 'out' of the situation - think about something totally mundane, recite your times tables, something like that. Combine that with deep breahing and concentrate on keeping a lid on your emotions for that short time, and that should get you through.

[Morrisonker]

apparently you can stop the tears flowing by rolling your eyes up, it stops the tear ducts working or something.  If you watch people getting emotional when they don't want to be, you'll notice that about 90% keep their head still but look upwards. Seems to work ok for me.  You'll still get the red eyes and sniffley nose, but no tears!

[banana]

I bite the inside of my lower lip to stop immediate tears .

[Cockney_si]

This piece of advice usually works If you get the gut-dropping-out emotional feeling too --> it may be an idea to focus on something nice when it happens, with practice the tears will go.

[buchanan]

I have the same problem and while Its good to have techniques - and these certainly are excellent suggestions - if you just can't contain yourself, try the - "so what" approach.  There are lots of occasions when tears are acceptable and even expected, I suppose it depends on what the events are.  If they are weddings or funerals, well no shame in crying there, on other occasions just try not to howl audibly and don't get shifty or apologetic .  We've all got our personality crosses to bear and yours is a great big soft heart - there are many things worse than that!!

Best wishes from someone who has been known to cry at Andrex adverts.

[smudge]

I do sympathise with you luamber, as this can be rather embarrassing when you are in company! 

I've even cried at the end of Ground Force when the surprise has been sprung!

[Dark Angel]

luamber I heard that looking up, without turning your head towards the ceiling, will close your tear ducts and  can prevent tears thus.

[luamber]

Thanks people!

Smudge & Buchanan - At last! Other people who cry at ridiculous things on TV! (and I thought I was the only one....)

Thanks so much for all the advice...maybe I'll feel less of a div in the future!  (failing that, I'll bawl my eyes out and be proud!)

[hairylemon]

a good kick up the backside would do u no harm. get a grip lady.

[luamber]

Thanks very much for your valuable contribution Hairylemon. 

[smudge]

That's okay luamber - even the answer from Vinny200 on P&P Wedding Presents, made me cry - it was soooo lovely.

[hairylemon]

you're very welcome indeed. my friend use to be the same...whingin at the drop of a hat. a good talkin to was all she needed to cop on

[luamber]

Another inspiring answer - thank you Hairylemon. 

[fairy!]

You're definately not alone...I cry at everything... people show anger, happiness, sadness etc in different ways... I just burst in to tears & it drives me nuts! :-(

[hairylemon]

sorry there luamber..perhaps i was a bit harsh. hope i didnt make u cry. i just dont understand is all. crying leaves you puffy eyed, red faced and snotty nosed. pointless carry on!!