Hundreds of Chicago residents gather on the embankment to scream

An unusual club called Scream Club has appeared in Chicago, where members gather on North Avenue Beach on Sundays and scream together. Club founder Manny Hernandez explains that this practice helps people relieve stress and prepare emotionally for the week ahead.

Reactions on social media are divided. Some call it a brilliant way to let off steam, while others consider the noise on the beach ridiculous and annoying. Some recall similar practices in Asia, where screaming is used in therapy, while others are ironic - they say that residents of nearby houses will now also scream, but out of despair.

Psychologists note that group screaming can really reduce cortisol levels, especially if a person is experiencing chronic stress. However, it is important to consider the reaction of others - not everyone is ready to put up with noise even for the sake of a therapeutic effect.

Spontaneous collective actions with screaming have a long history, from ancient rituals to modern flash mobs. In some cultures, such practices were used to ward off evil spirits or as part of festive rituals.