Psychiatry has taught us that humour is a mature defense mechanism, something that enables an individual to cope with stress, anxiety, or discomfort. Obviously to use it we must train ourselves to look at tense situations with satire and allow ourself a laugh. Of course one may find people saying, “this person makes a mockery of every situation” but trust me that is better than becoming anxious and panicky.
In fact, using humour gives the individual an opportunity to distance oneself from a difficult situation, to reduce the stress and anxiety, helps to look at a situation in a more light-hearted way, and probably find a solution to the same. But not many are “serious about using humour in serious situations” and hence suffer. Using humour in challenging or adverse situations can cultivate a sense of psychological resilience and provide a temporary relief from distress. And who does not want to be stress-free? Or be less angry and irritable?
Before advising patients, I also try to follow its use whenever possible, when talking to patients to reduce their anxiety, sometimes when teaching my students or laughing at myself which makes my day go better. It then becomes affirmative, when I give advice of laughter therapy as a modality of treatment. Most of us have grown up seeing laughter clubs in nana-nani parks with the elderly having jovial laughs to begin their day. Obviously, the benefits of using humour, made these laughter clubs so popular.
Humour and satire can indeed be powerful tools for maintaining mental well-being and can help us:
- Cope with stress: Laughter and irony can provide relief and perspective.
- Process emotions: Satire can facilitate critical thinking and emotional release.
- Build connections: Shared humour can foster social bonds and community.
Hence as a psychiatrist, I always write a “Daily Dose of Laughter” for at least 15 minutes which can be achieved by reading a joke book which I often ask them to carry, or watch their favourite standup comedian. Most of these stand-up artists have a great timing and they often perform a 10-to-15-minute stint which serves the purpose. We have a lot of Indian standup comedians like Amit Tandon, Aiyyo Shraddha, Rahul Subramanian…to name a few who do clean jokes which can be related to, by the public. After all, “Laugh and the world laughs with you, cry and you cry alone.” Such is the power of humour!!
A doctor must advise a good laugh! We can use the platforms provided by media to improve mental health of all. Certain programs like “Maharashtrachi Hasyajatra, Hasya Kavi Sammelan, Chala Hawa Yeu Dya, The Kapil Sharma Show” are some popular programs on TV which should be seen instead of the daily soaps to keep oneself mentally fit. Mobile phones and internet have made everything achievable and one does not have to wait till evening to reach home and see the telly. Daily commute offers a lot of time and a 10-minute session can be a wonderful de-stressor to begin or end the day.
How does humour or satire help to navigate life’s challenges?
- Laughter and humour can reduce tension and anxiety.
- Laughter can improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression.
- Humour and satire can help process and release pent-up emotions.
- Satire can provide a fresh, often ironic perspective on challenging situations.
- Humour and satire can foster creative problem-solving, encourage critical thinking and analysis.
- Shared humour can develop resilience, build connections, and navigate life’s challenges with greater ease and can create a sense of community and connection.
A good laugh brings about involvement of several muscle groups of the body which is akin to exercise. We have different sort of laughter reactions – someone may just smile, someone moves their shoulder and belly, some may roll on the floor, some may just grin. It depends on the joke ….and it is important to express laugher in the manner comfortable. Some people may become conscious of the way in which they laugh and try to stifle it. Best is to laugh out loud…as it is an exhilarating experience. It is true that “Laughter is the best medicine”, but unfortunately there are not many takers for it. We realise its importance in our lives, but we do not give ourselves any importance or time. Hence, we miss out on our own mental health, miss out on nurturing our wellness though we maybe more concerned about our family, friends and even our patients. It is indeed necessary that we practice self-care.
So do not forget to ask yourself, “Did I Laugh Today?”