Embracing Emotional Release- The BEST Places to Cry in St.Albert

No matter how much therapy you are able to access, or how adjusted and neurotypical you are, sometimes the only thing that will make it better is just a sobbing, snotty, ugly cry. Whether it is a 'head-under-the-cover-hiding-from-the-world' cry or a good old-fashioned 'parking-lot-with-a-burger' sob, there is nothing quite like the catharsis of a good tear-fest. And while we understand the satisfaction and would never judge you for it, there is a certain amount of scrutiny to be avoided, especially if you forgot to buy waterproof mascara! Therefore, we have compiled a list of the best (and most secluded) places to wail to your heart's content!

The Roman Catholic Cemetery on Vital Ave is an excellent option. No matter what time of year you go, you can be inspired by the large trees and quietness. In summer, it is green and lush, and in the winter, they are covered in Christmas lights and snowfall. The added bonus is that no one would question why you were crying parked at a cemetery; they don’t need to know you failed a midterm and that no one has actually died.

If you’re an outdoorsy person, might we suggest the Lois Hole Centennial Provincial Park? It boasts a large parking lot overlooking the trees if you like the views but want to avoid the elements. You can also walk the boardwalks and cry moodily overlooking Big Lake. If you’re able to plan your cries and have some foresight as to when it intends to rear its head again, come prepared with some birdseed and feed the birds at the bird sanctuary, and perhaps use their squawking to mask your own!

There is a reason you don’t see adults on tropical beaches putting on public water shows, and it's because it's hard to feel sad in happy places… but there is nothing better than a sad, grungy parking lot to really drive home your self-pity. If you're an urban car crier, embrace the moodiness of sitting under streetlights (preferably when it's raining, but we can’t always time these things). Our favourite parking lot is located at 18 St. Anne Street - Lot #396, behind the community centre; it's relatively remote, and afterwards, you can pop into Jack’s Burger Shack for a nostalgic flavoured milkshake.

If you’re feeling dramatic, and are comfortable splurging on your cry, perhaps you should consider a trip to the cinema. Now, we really don’t need more people knowing about the extravagance that is the Landmark Theater on St. Albert Trail; it has already gotten a little too popular. But the cozy reclining seats and dim lighting will really set the mood for one of those silent, racking sobs. Find the saddest movie you can, sit in the back corner, and bring a huge cozy blanket because there is no judgment here!

As mentioned previously, there is something special when it feels like the world is crying with you, but sometimes our bodies can’t wait for it to be raining to let go. That's why we recommend that small alcove behind the waterfall in St. Albert Place. If you’re entering from the west side of the building, it's just on your left-hand side. While also not entirely secluded, it does have a great dark and moody atmosphere, and the library is right there so you could always use a book to block the appearance that you are fully breaking down in a public space.

Another fantastically secluded nature space in St. Albert that we love, even when we aren’t desperately sad, is the Riverlot 56 off of Poundmaker Rd. It’s so naturally stunning that by the time you are done with your cry/walk, you may just feel reborn and ready to face the day. There are a number of circuits that vary in length so you can spend an hour amongst the trees or only 10 minutes. It's frequently visited by moose and deer, so beware that you can emerge from this spot thinking you’re some sort of Disney princess/prince.

Embracing the need for a good cry is part of self-care. Finding the right place to release those pent-up emotions can make all the difference. Whether it’s in nature, a quiet corner of the city, or the back row of a cinema, allow yourself the space to feel and heal. If you need additional resources, we are always here to help! And remember, it’s okay not to be okay sometimes.

Inspired by this fantastic Reddit thread that is the epitome of judgment-free mental health support.