Using Humor to Overcome Challenges: The Power of Laughter in Tough Times
How Humor Takes the Edge off Hard Times
When life feels difficult, humor can be a coping mechanism that relieves stress and offers the breathing room to keep going, scientists say.
Three psychologists walk into a bar to compose a witty toast to the power of humor. Or rather, I picked up the phone and called each of them about the subject. (I’m just terrible at telling jokes.) But these psychologists do genuinely want people to understand the role that humor can play in helping one deal with stress, anger, fear, anxiety, and other difficult emotions.
The Role of Humor in Coping with Stress
To psychologists, a coping mechanism is any kind of behavior or thought someone uses to deal with stress. Not all of these strategies are beneficial; drinking or binge eating, for example, are more dangerous coping mechanisms. However, humor is indeed a powerful way of handling stressors that activate how we feel, think, act, and our physiology.
The Psychological and Physical Benefits of Humor
Humor is a strategic coping mechanism that can replace distressing emotions with joy, lightness, surprise, or connection. It can also tap into creativity, enabling a perspective shift, and offer physical benefits like better breathing, muscle relaxation, and a higher pain tolerance. Laughter, a physical embodiment of humor, is also associated with the release of endorphins that reduce stress.
The Social Aspect of Humor
Humor is inherently social and can help build connections, especially during times of heightened stress. However, it’s essential to be mindful of the type of humor used, as mean-spirited or disparaging humor can increase stress and disconnection.
Cultivating Humor and Finding Balance
While humor can arise spontaneously during stress, it can also be cultivated consciously to lighten the mood and build connections with others. It’s important to remember that embracing humor doesn’t mean ignoring difficult emotions but using it in moderation as a moment of relief amid challenging times.
In conclusion, humor can be a powerful tool for coping with stress and navigating tough times, offering a moment of levity and connection in the face of adversity. So, the next time you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, maybe a good laugh is all you need to lighten the mood and keep moving forward.