Contact: Leni Kirkman, Julie Wiley: 210-358-2335 - Pager: 756-1200

A spoon full of laughter helps the medicine go down

It's Happy Hour at University Hospital

BACKGROUND: It's a fact! Laughter heals like medicine. When we laugh, it helps reduce stress-Blood pressure and heart rates are lowered. Laughter is truly a gift for coping with the stresses of everyday life.

The sounds of our laughter spring from our emotional core, helping us feel better and to see things more clearly. Laughter does the body, mind and soul plenty of good. Research shows that laughter helps:

• Lower blood pressure
• Reduce stress hormones
• Increase muscle flexion
• Boost immune function by raising levels of infection-fighting cells
• Trigger the release of endorphins-the body's natural painkillers, producing a general sense of well-being

At University Hospital, the Acute Pain Department is incorporating laughter therapy as part of their therapeutic regimens for medical staff. Humorist/Comedian, Irene Lopez, RN, will deliver a presentation on nursing/medical humor. "It's a contagious emotion and it helps bring people together and breaks down barriers. Best of all, it's free and has no known side effects," says Peggy Batholomew, RN, Acute Pain Department.

University Hospital is also celebrating its 4th Annual Pain Awareness Week from Sept. 25-29 to help promote pain management.

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