She Strengthens

Laughter in the Time of Crisis: How to Find Humor Amidst Pandemic Stress

As I chop vegetables for tonight’s dinner, I’m tuned in to President Obama’s interview on NPR’s “Fresh Air.” He’s discussing his memoir, and I’m reminded of the 2015 White House Correspondents’ Dinner, where comedian Keegan-Michael Key played his “anger translator.” The memory brings a warm smile to my face, a respite from the relentless stress of pandemic life.

The Struggle to Laugh

But as I serve my husband the turmeric chicken, his reaction is far from enthusiastic. “Wow, this is…something,” he says, and I feel a sting of criticism. In pre-pandemic times, we would’ve laughed off the mediocre dish, but now, every comment feels like a personal attack. Our hypersensitivity is a symptom of the collective trauma we’re experiencing.

The Psychological Toll of Pandemic Life

Adam Reynolds, a drama therapist, explains that our current situation is a culturally shared traumatic event. We’re all struggling with concrete losses – loved ones, jobs, connections, and future plans. This shared trauma makes it difficult to laugh, especially at ourselves. Psychologist Melissa DeGeso notes that, on a psychological level, dropping our guard to laugh is perceived as dangerous. We need to stay strong to survive.

The Weight of Racial Injustice

The ongoing reckoning of racial injustice in America adds to our collective sense of gravity, further limiting our access to humor. Zeneida Disla, an integrative therapist, notes that women in lower-income communities are disproportionately affected, shouldering the burden of caregiving and financial struggles. Her daughter, Clarissa, recalls how conversations about race have become increasingly tense, leaving little room for humor.

The Power of Self-Deprecating Humor

Despite the challenges, experts agree that humor and self-deprecation can help us cope and heal. By stepping out of our circumstances and seeing things differently, we can catch our breath and rest our mental muscles. Laughter can bring catharsis and healing.

Finding Ways to Laugh Again

So, how can we reclaim our sense of humor? Here are a few strategies:

Share Stories and Find Humor

Sharing daily stories with loved ones can help us find the humor in our mundane lives. Try Matthew Dicks’ “Homework for Life” strategy, where you reflect on and record the small moments of your day.

Schedule Joy

Make time for activities that bring you joy, even if it’s just a few seconds of looking at a happy picture. Having something to look forward to, like a hobby or favorite comfort food, can be a lifesaver.

Lend a Helping Hand

Volunteering at a COVID-19 testing site or making meals for a neighbor in need can help you find purpose and laughter. Contributing to your community can be its own reward.

Seek Help for Your Mental Health

If you’re struggling to cope, don’t hesitate to reach out to a qualified professional. They can help you develop a treatment plan to ease stress and provide support during this crisis.

By finding ways to laugh again, we can begin to heal and reclaim our sense of humor, even in the darkest of times.