The lifesaving function of humor with the depressed and suicidal elderly.

This article describes situations where laughter or humor occurred during therapy with depressed and suicidal patients. Therapeutic humor is associated with five principles: (1) a positive doctor-patient relationship includes the freedom to be humorous; (2) the humor is life affirming; (3) the humor increases social cohesion; (4) the humor is interactive; (5) the humor reduces stress. The application of these principles is based upon a knowledge of the required interventions and an awareness of when humor is or is not appropriate. The main effects are symptom relief and increased cohesion. Recommendations are made to health practitioners for the optimal use of humor.