Let me first start by saying I am writing this blog from the John Hopkins Psychiatric Unit, in Baltimore, Maryland. They allow the patients to have their, IPAD, cell phone, and laptop. I decided to submit this blog because daily I find that even those individuals who are depressed they can smile too, I as well as anybody with a mood disorder, while depressed, find laughing and smiling at jokes that last thing on the agenda, but just a small smile helps. Nevertheless, I think that this topic is important to discuss!
In groups, they have been discussing coping skills, one of which is laughter. Although sometimes laughter can cover up symptoms and distract away from issues, they do say, “laughter is the best medicine,” when of course used appropriately.
While manic, it is common to be quick witty, increase creative ideas, along with providing tons of laughing continuously. Laughter can sometimes be more effective than medication alone. However, I am not discounting those who are depressed and find laughter the last thing on their agenda.
While some folks diagnosed with depression find laughing difficult, I find that laughing at some of the strange behaviors of those with Bipolar Disorder can be a great way to cope!
Think about when you are in hypomania or mania mode. Sometimes it seems harmless. However, I have noticed people seem to flock towards my energy and life of the party ramblings. My ability to think of quick-witted comments, and respond with puns is very amusing. It is like drinking tons of alcohol and becoming inhibited. The difference though is that I am not drunk! I will say though, the more manic I am the more I tend to spew out inappropriate comments, which is not always that great!
I think people take things too serious with or without a mental illness. Sometimes life should not be treated so seriously. Folks need to lighten-up and breathe, and enjoy, instead of being stressed out.
Below from multiple sources I found this joke:
1-800-PSYCH
• If you are Obsessive-Compulsive, press 1 repeatedly, being certain to touch the table and counting to 10 between each press.
• If you are Co-Dependent, please ask someone to press 2 for you.
• If you have Multiple Personalities, press 3, 4, 5, and 6.
• If you are Paranoid, we know who you are and what you want. Stay on the line so we can trace your call.
• If you are Delusional, press 7, and your call will be transferred to the Mother Ship.
• If you are Schizophrenic, listen carefully, and a small voice will tell you which number to press.
• If you are Manic-Depressive, it does not matter which number you press since no one will answer.
• If you have Bi-Polar Disorder, please leave a message after the beep. Or before the beep. Or after the beep. Please wait for the beep.
• If you have Low Self Esteem, please hang up. All our representatives are too busy to help worthless people like you.
• In addition, thank you for calling the Mental Health Hotline!
Again, this post is in no way discounting those whom are going through a rough patch; my goal was just wanted to provide a sense of humor!
