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  • Stress blog

  • Feb. 27, 2010

    Humor and company make the journey easier

    By Edward T. Creagan, M.D.

4 comments posted

I was profoundly gratified to see the very positive response to my blog about Al-Anon. For many years, I regularly attended a Friday evening program for help coming to grips with the nightmare of alcoholism in our family. The participants were supportive, not judgmental. They didn't offer advice but rather shared their own experiences. I should also add that these were some of the funniest people I've ever met. When faced with unbelievable challenges, sometimes it's our humor that gets us through.

Need more help?

If the stress in your life is more than you can cope with, get help right away.

  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
    1-800-273-TALK (8255)
  • Go to the nearest hospital or emergency room
  • Call your physician, health provider or clergy
  • National Alliance on Mental Illness
    www.nami.org
    1-800-950-NAMI (6264)

I remember at one meeting a woman made the comment that you can't be funny if you've never suffered. She supported her assertion with the observation that the best comedians come from the most oppressed and marginalized groups in society. Indeed, I can think of no truly durable comedian who grew up in an environment of privilege and prosperity.

I'm grateful for the wise contributions of my fellow pilgrims. We learn so much from one another.

4 comments posted

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MY01210 Feb. 27, 2010

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