How can you use humor and playfulness in a peer support group?

Though I agree with the fact that Humor can help reduce stress and anxiety by releasing endorphins and relaxing muscles, yet I feel that effectiveness of humor as a stress relief technique is contextual and varies from individual to individual. Not all forms of humor would be equally effective as some people may find them offensive or unpleasant thus inadvertently harming relationships. While it can encourage creative thinking by disrupting conventional thought processes, it's not a guaranteed solution for problem solving as that might require critical analysis and structured techniques. Also, it depends on cultural factors and individual preferences. So, it's imperative that it should be used responsibly while factoring its limitations.

Humour is a direct route to a lighter and more connected atmosphere and tone. The real consideration is whether the humour is appropriate, timely, and in line with the setting it’s expressed in. Ironically, the more you think about how/when to be funny, the less able you are to be funny. It’s much like dancing, when you’re called to do it, you’ll perform best by actually enjoying it and relaxing into it. Don’t overthink it. If in doubt, try and open to humour in subtler ways such as acknowledging someone else’s humour or a relevant past events that are light-hearted.

Humor is a healthy and mature ego defense mechanism. Since we learn from modeling, we can learn this skill from observing close peers who are able to perceive the funny, or ironic aspects of stressful situations.

An example I've seen of this was a group puzzle. Each member of the group was given two or three pieces and only five minutes to complete it collectively, without talking. Cue lots of people dashing about, lots of quiet laughter and lots of eye contact. As the large image of a plane came together, there was a sense of excitement and connection in the room. The energy shifted. Five minutes of play set the group up for an unusually collaborative and productive session.

Few Suggestions: Understanding Audience's preferences, sensitivities and cultural backgrounds, humor should be tailored to the target audience. Avoiding sarcasm and mockery/making fun of others while using humor as a lighthearted and inclusive lever to dissipate tense situations. Acknowledging professional and personal boundaries in relationships. Timing humor appropriately, not using jokes during sensitive situations. Not coming across as hurting anyone's self-esteem or coming across as seeking pity. Monitoring nonverbal cues by being responsive to the discomfort of the audience by apologizing & changing the conversation appropriately. Learning from past experiences and being more adaptable to the needs and sensitivities of people around.