Feeling Stressed? Scream Your Way To Calm. Why Some People Are Trying Scream Therapy for Stress

Kelly Rowe
Oct 21
3 min read

My mum phoned me the other day to tell me about something she’d just seen on Lorraine. Apparently, people are gathering in parks to scream together as a way to relieve stress. She thought it sounded “right up my street”—which made me laugh. Hopefully she meant as a counsellor and not as someone who needs stress relief! But we all need a little release every now and again, right?

It does sound a bit unusual (and maybe a little funny), but many of those taking part say they feel lighter and calmer afterwards. And once I’d got past the mental image of a crowd of strangers howling into the sky, I had to admit—it’s an interesting idea. So what’s behind this growing “scream therapy” trend? And could it really help you feel better?

What Exactly Is ‘Scream Therapy’ For Stress?

Screaming for stress relief isn’t as new as it sounds. Back in the 1970s, a psychologist called Arthur Janov created something known as primal therapy, which encouraged people to release repressed emotions by yelling or crying.

Today’s version is less clinical and more communal. Groups—sometimes called “scream clubs”—gather for a collective shout. There’s usually a countdown, a big release, then laughter, hugs, and a sense of “wow, that felt good.”

It’s not about anger or rage—it’s about release. You’re letting go of tension in a safe space where everyone’s doing the same thing.

Why Screaming Might Actually Help

There are a few reasons this kind of emotional release can make you feel better—at least in the short term:

It releases physical tension. When you’re stressed, your body holds it physically —shoulders can be raised, jaw sets tight, breathing becomes shallow. Letting out a full-bodied sound can help shake off that tension, much like exercise or a good cry.
It gives permission to express. We often feel its expected for us to stay calm, smile, and carry on. Screaming can feel liberating, precisely because it breaks that 'rule' safely.
It creates connection. There’s something bonding about doing something slightly ridiculous together. It reminds us we’re human—and not alone in our stress.
It acts as a reset. The build-up, the release, and the calm afterwards can give your mind and body a small reboot.

So while there’s nothing mystical about it, there is something very human about needing to 'let go'.

But What Does Science Say?

At the moment, there’s very little scientific research to say that scream therapy for stress offers long-term benefits. Some psychologists note that while a big outburst might feel great in the moment, it’s not a magic or long-term fix for deeper stress or emotional pain.

That said, there’s plenty of evidence that physical release, emotional expression, and social connection all play key roles in reducing stress. Scream therapy simply combines all three in a memorable, slightly wild way.

Think of it less as “therapy” and more as a quick emotional workout—it can lift the pressure valve but shouldn’t replace proven stress-management tools like talking to someone, exercise, or mindfulness.

If You Fancy Trying It (Safely)

If the idea appeals to you—whether with friends, at an event, or even in your car—here are a few simple tips:

Pick your spot wisely. A park, the beach, or even a pillow at home. Probably not your office or the supermarket queue.
Warm up a little. A deep breath or hum before shouting can protect your voice.
Don’t overdo it. One or two good screams is plenty.
Take a moment afterwards. Notice how you feel—lighter, tired, tearful, relieved? Let your body settle.
Pair it with something soothing. A walk, stretch, or cup of tea helps the body to move from high energy back to calm.

When Screaming Isn’t the Answer

While it can feel fun and freeing, screaming isn’t for everyone. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, angry, or stuck in sadness, shouting it out might stir more emotion than it soothes. In those moments, talking to a counsellor or therapist can help you process what’s really underneath.

Remember, stress relief is about finding what works for you. For some, it’s meditation; for others, it’s running, music, or laughter. And now, apparently, for a few brave souls—it’s a good, loud yell in the park.

The Bottom Line

Scream therapy might sound like a gimmick, but at its heart it taps into something simple: the need to release. In a world that asks us to stay composed, a few seconds of honest noise can feel surprisingly healing.

So if you ever find yourself watching the news and thinking, “I just need to scream”… maybe, just maybe, give it a go—safely, mindfully, and with a sense of humour. After all, sometimes letting it out is the first step to letting it go.