Seriously, laughter matters

Todays OR Nurse. 1993 Nov-Dec;15(6):19-24.

Abstract

1. There is a humor-health connection; humor is related to wellness and holistic health. Humor and humor skills are becoming increasingly valued assets in the work place. 2. The use of humor among co-workers and administrators serves to form a more cohesive unit and combats the inherent stress in the demanding health care environment. Finding common experiences and frustrations, and reinterpreting them as a group, develops a camaraderie and power over previously difficult situations. 3. Humor and laughter can help us in the workplace and in our personal lives. After you put humor and laughter into your own life, you can take these skills to your patients. You can show them how to use mirth and silliness to live life on life's terms or, said another way, to thrive in adversity by accessing joy in absurdity.

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Psychological*
  • Humans
  • Laughter*
  • Nurses / psychology*
  • Psychoneuroimmunology
  • Self Care*
  • Wit and Humor as Topic*