Happiness and humour. A medical perspective.
BACKGROUND
The medical profession's focus on dealing with negative mental states has led to the suggestion of classifying 'happiness' as a major affective disorder (pleasant type).


OBJECTIVE
To describe the symptoms and signs of happiness and discuss its health benefits.


CONCLUSIONS
Epidemiological data suggests that happiness is related to personality factors such as high self esteem, feelings of personal control and extroversion and is unrelated to demographic factors or the ownership of consumer goods. Humour is a communication device specifically designed to elicit joy and happiness and is effective in relieving anxiety and stress and enhances communication in medical settings. Recapturing the optimistic enchantment with life that is a part of childhood may be a key to happiness and health.
Cohen
M
M
Centre for Complementary Medicine, Monash Institute of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Monash University, Victoria.
D001315:Australia; D005194:Family Practice; D005260:Female; D006240:Happiness; D006304:Health Status; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D014925:Wit and Humor as Topic