Pathological laughter and crying

Updated: 2017-06-13

Overview

Pseudobulbar affect is characterized by an involuntary and uncontrollable reaction of laughter or crying that's disproportionate to an event.

Symptoms

The crying or laughing may start as a response to a situation, such as a sad movie, but the feelings are more intense and last longer than expected. They are difficult or impossible to stop.

Treatments

Antidepressants and talk therapy can help.