Approach Brain Injury with Humor

Of course there is nothing really funny about brain injury. However, it is helpful to approach brain injury with a sense of humor. After things begin to settle down some it is usually possible to look back at some of the events that occurred and see them as quite comical. Having a sense of humor will help get us through the devastation of some of the events that are so unpleasant as a result of this tragedy in our lives.

My dad has been in the hospital (not for brain injury thank goodness), but his condition has been very serious. He has been on some really strong narcotics - the results of which have been devastating in many ways. However, once he gets through each crisis, we look back to some of the things (which were not funny at the time) as humorous. For instance when he tried to kiss a nurse or some of the things he said to my mom and some of the other family members.

Actually, when we can approach the difficult times in our lives with a sense of humor it seems to take the edge off a little. A book by Dr. Glen Johnson, Clinical Neuropsychologist contains the statement, “You are not fully clothed until you’re wearing a smile.” He states he believes that humor is an essential component to getting better.

Let’s do our best to lighten up in 2010.