You’ve probably heard the old adage, “Laughter is the best medicine.” And it turns out it’s not just a cute saying. Laughter triggers our bodies to release endorphins and dopamine — two of the neurotransmitters associated with happiness. Finding the humor in a situation can reduce your stress and deliver a much-needed dose of hope. Read on for strategies for keeping your sense of humor despite the struggles of chronic illness.
#1: Feel What You Need to Feel.
First things first, there’s no shame in being frustrated or sad or angry about a moment. Allowing yourself some time to process those feelings can help you move through them and let go of them. Try not to let yourself wallow; give yourself a time limit if you have to, whether that’s 15 minutes or a week. In that time period, indulge any feelings of grief, resentment, self-pity — whatever you feel.
But when the time’s up, so is the negativity. Begin by reframing the situation and finding the positive, starting with the fact that you’re still here with the opportunity to find the joy in life.
#2: Imagine the Sit-Com Version of Your Life.
Imagine you were watching your life on TV. The situation you’re finding incredibly frustrating might find a humorous bent in a fictional version. Even if your imagination has to add a few extra elements to get to the humor in the situation, it’ll help you see the building blocks of humor in your own.
#3: “Ten Years From Now, This Will Be Hilarious!”
When we’re in the difficult moment, it can be hard to see that the mountain is really just a molehill in the landscape of life. Reminding yourself that you’ll eventually be able to laugh as well as be proud of how you managed and persevered through a situation can help you find some humor in the current moment, even as it’s happening.
Treatment for Chronic Illness at IVX Health
We know it can be a struggle for our patients sometimes, and that’s why we make it our business to help you triumph. And that means making sure you can get your treatments in a comfortable atmosphere at a location near you on a schedule that works for you.
With the warmth of a spa-like setting and the comforts of home without having to entertain medical professionals, you can receive IV treatment at IVX Health while catching up on your favorite TV shows on our HDTVs, digging into the latest hit novel on our eReaders, or by simply hanging out with friends or family in your own private room. We’ll even provide refreshments.
We also understand the demands of a busy schedule, so we offer appointments during days, evenings and on Saturdays at three convenient locations on either side of the state line in Kansas City (MO), Independence and Overland Park. If you’re ready to experience the difference IVX Health can make in your life, give us a call at any of our locations.