While there is nothing funny about addiction and it is a very serious condition, that doesn’t mean that there isn’t a right time or place for humor. Laughter can actually be very therapeutic and help with the healing process. It’s more difficult to feel depressed when you have something to smile and laugh about and people who keep you in good spirits. And when you have a positive attitude, this can help reduce your risk of relapse.
You can go to a comedy club and listen to the professionals tell their best stories and jokes, or you can spend time with friends who have a knack for finding humor in the everyday. There are plenty of television shows, books, and events where you can also rack up some time spent laughing. If you take the time to reflect and look around, you will see that there is plenty of good in the world and it’s not all darkness and gloom.
In the beginning of recovery, you will probably have a more serious mindset as you focus on incorporating what you have learned in treatment into your life. It takes a more conscious effort to resist temptation, avoid negative influences, and not slip into old routines. You may wonder how you could ever look back on your past and laugh when it presented you with so many challenges. But in time your perspective may change as you recognize the benefits of laughter in your ongoing recovery.
Boost your mood
Laughter provides a natural production and release of endorphins. It can help to “rewire” your brain and help you to find pleasure in things other than drugs or alcohol. Without these substances coursing through your body, you get these highs and rewarding feelings from other sources. It takes your brain time to balance its own production of endorphins, and regular laughter can stimulate this process as well as make you feel more motivated and energized.
Remind you that you’re on the right track
In an executive rehab program, you became more aware of the toll addiction had taken on your life thus far. This can be a heavy load to bear. It can be easy to let your past weigh you down and become your focus. Laughter helps you to break free from the negative and start to see things from a more positive perspective. You may have made mistakes in the past, but you’re learning from them and creating a brighter future.
When you look back on some of the awkward or ridiculous situations you got yourself into as a result of your addiction, this can make you laugh. It can remind you that you don’t want to be in that position again and you’ve taken steps to turn your life around.
Build relationships
Think about the type of people you like to have as friends. Are they sullen and focused on the negative, or are they happy and driven? It’s okay to have bad days now and then, but in general, people like to spend time with others who are usually in good spirits. We are naturally drawn to those who laugh and smile. Allowing yourself to laugh and be happy can help you to attract more positive people into your life. You don’t have to drink to have a good time, and finding the right group of friends can reinforce that.
Reduce stress
Laughter can be a great pick-me-up and a way to unwind. It’s hard to stay mad when someone or something is making you laugh. When you’ve had a rough day, resist the urge to isolate yourself and brood. Instead, make it a point to hang out with people who make you happy, watch a comedy on TV, or find some silly video clips online. Taking just a few minutes to engage yourself with something humorous can make a difference in how you feel. It can also remind you to look for the silver lining and focus on what is going right instead of what isn’t.
Lighten the mood
We’ve all been caught in tense or awkward moments. Finding some humor in them can break the ice. Instead of getting yourself worked up over something you have no control over, learn to let go and laugh. Whether it’s making funny faces, telling a joke, or breaking out into a dance, it can make things less uncomfortable and give you and others reason to smile. Furthermore, it can help to diffuse arguments, create a distraction, and switch conversation to a new topic.
You don’t have to be laughing all the time or be eternally happy, but make sure you find time every day for a little humor to help you relax and brighten your mood. With all of the serious focus and hard work you put into recovery, it’s healthy not to forget that you can still enjoy yourself at the same time. Chapters Capistrano can help you discover the bright side of recovery and turn your life around with customized drug and alcohol treatment programs. Start a new chapter and make the most of your future by contacting Chapters Capistrano at 949-276-2886.
