Why Do I Experience Sudden Uncontrollable Laughing Or Crying?

Is your emotional response exaggerated for the situation (i.e., is your response to situations more intense than others)?

Are your emotions disconnected from your moods (e.g., cry when not sad, or laugh when nothing funny is going on)?

Is your response inappropriate to the event (e.g., laughing out loud at a funeral)?

Are the episodes unpredictable?

Is it hard to stop the laughter or tears?

Does laughter turn to tears, and vice versa?

Do your moods return to normal in between episodes of laughter or tears?

Based on your answers, it is unlikely that you have a serious problem that needs clinical attention. There is a condition, called ‘pseudobulbar affect’ (PBA), in which a person suddenly uncontrollably and inappropriately starts to laugh or cry. Severe symptoms of PBA can lead to embarrassing situations, social isolation, and depression. People with PBA will experience impairment in daily functioning. The condition often goes underdiagnosed or is mistaken for mood disorders. If you are not sure about your symptom(s) or if you want to know more about the condition, it may be important to talk to your doctor.

While it is unlikely that you have a serious problem, you may be displaying some signs related to pseudobulbar affect. Pseudobulbar affect (PBA) is characterized by sudden uncontrollable and inappropriate laughing or crying. The condition is often mistaken for mood disorders. PBA is not a dangerous condition, but it can cause impairment in normal functioning and embarrassing situations. It is important to talk about your symptoms with your doctor. Also make sure to discuss specific details about your emotional outbursts, in order to receive an accurate diagnosis.

Unfortunately, you are displaying the symptoms typically seen among individuals who have pseudobulbar affect (PBA). It may be of high importance to seek medical support. PBA is characterized by sudden uncontrollable and exaggerated emotional outbursts. If someone suddenly begins to laugh or cry without reason, or can’t control these emotional outbursts, it may be a sign of PBA. The goal of treatment for this condition is to reduce the emotional outbursts. Usually medication is prescribed, including antidepressants. Besides, occupational therapy may help you to develop ways to manage everyday tasks. Support groups may also help you feel understood, and you can discuss tips for coping with the condition.