The comic therapy of American doctor Patch Adams

Peace Times 12

«Laughing is the best solution to all problems, even those more serious and apparently unsurmountable, which show us the world with eyes shut through suffering; we have defined it comico-therapy to facilitate its approval with hospitals, but in reality it is more a philosophy of life, a form of brotherhood, love and communion».

With these words, American physician and writer, Dr Patch Adams, introduced himself in the paediatric department of the Silvestrini hospital in Perugia, Italy, who took part in the first international conference on comico-therapy which took place at the Alcatraz Free University in Santa Cristina in Gubbio, Italy. He inspired the role played by Robin Williams in the film entitled «Patch Adams»; a story which comically attempts to explain the vital importance of laughter and smiles to fight any kind of pathology, even the most serious.

«We must bring the “heal with a smile” among sick people, but above all we must educate people in the art of smiling and changing their ways of thinking», doctor Adams told.

He concluded: «Patients of any age, both children like adults, need to trust in their own doctor and nurture a friendly relationship. Illness must in no way become an alienation. With their music, games and jokes, clowns and entertainers can truly help those who are ill get out of the black hole of suffering».