Laughing at Addiction - the science of using humor to heal. | Jessica Landon | TEDxBeaconStreet

NOTE FROM TED: Some viewers may find elements of this talk to be distressing or objectionable. Please do not look to this talk for medical advice. This talk only represents the speaker's personal views and understanding of trauma, addiction, and the health effects of laughter. We've flagged this talk because it falls outside the content guidelines TED gives TEDx organizers. TEDx events are independently organized by volunteers. The guidelines we give TEDx organizers are described in more detail here: storage.ted.com...
Childhood trauma associated w/ addiction (Aces) and the healing power of laughter.
Landon is a Writer, Certified HeartMath Resilience Recovery Coach, Speaker and new Mom. As a comedic actress, Jessica has appeared on Comedy Central’s MADtv, Robot Chicken, Jamie Foxx Sketch Comedy Show, Nickelodeon’s Drake & Josh, and NBC’s Medical Investigations. A few years into her acting career she spiraled into a nonfunctioning alcoholic. Turning her life around in Jan 2014, she made it her mission to help others struggling with addiction. Her harrowing journey has since been published in news outlets across the globe: The Daily Mail, Fox News, Yahoo, The Sun, The Mirror, LAD Bible, Popculture, Blast, and Newsweek. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at www.ted.com/tedx

[@halimal7]

I’m always floored that I had no idea you were going through all this! Gives me pause for thought as I was very envious of you at the time. You seemed to have it all. But life gave you a challenge that needed a strength I hope I will never need. Not that you need this from me but man! I am so damn proud of you!

[@thoughtfulpro371]

Ma’am, you were/are envious because Jessica is a light, you are attracted to her undeniable glow, charisma and god-given luminescence. I am merely another sober person on the journey - but just know the truth, that with great gifts comes great responsibility. What she has faced isn’t for the faint of heart & you can count your lucky stars you aren’t yet in that level of battle ring. Take care, highest blessings.

[@calvinnorwood4499]

Love your truth, sorry and hate what you had to go through. YOU ARE A TRUE SURVIVOR AND A STRONG PERSON. I hope your truth helps others. This shows the real YOU. NOT the industries cute/pretty/typical societies blonde.

[@angelbulldog4934]

When I was in rehab 15 years ago, I learned that we who have addiction problems have a brain that is wired differently from everybody else. For one thing, we have what's called a pleasure track. Whatever our drug of choice, it fits into that pleasure track like a finely honed dovetail joint. It's tires are brains and makes us want more and more. Also, when the person who's not alcoholic has a drink, his brain turns that alcohol into acetic acid. That's vinegar. No big deal. Our brains do an alcohol into acetaldehyde, which is poison. So in essence, I poisoned myself for over 20 years. If you're on this path to sobriety, please don't give up. I know it's hard work, but it will be so worth it in the end. Sanity can be returned. We are all worthy of a better life.

[@thoughtfulpro371]

You are amazing. Sobriety is a gift for limitless beings. Rise and rise sister.

[@katherinebrunsdon]

This is great Jess-as always-super inspiring! I remember getting my laugh back in recovery and it’s a huge part of my journey 🤪

[@bite-sizedbalancepodcastwi9968]

Loved this so much! So honest and so much helpful and enlightening information about how to heal and recover. Thanks for sharing, Jess!

[@suzannefernandez470]

I only laugh that hard at meetings. That's where I got my heart transplant!

[@kassandrauehling117]

That is some incredible insight. Thank you so much for your bravery and vulnerability. I related to so much of your story. I take myself wayyy too seriously sometimes. Thanks for reminding me to laugh through the pain 💜🙏🏻

[@behindbarbells]

I’ve used humor through ALL of my darkest times.

[@eliadvo]

u r so incredible, intelligent, inspiring and stunning! Thank u for this!

[@gurub930]

Thank you sister

[@kristylynn1329]

Thank you! Powerful talk!

[@sherryxiufen8153]

i am here because i have to detect the communication tools applied in this video.. for assignment purposes obviously.. nice speech anyways love it

[@arinahzafirahshamsulkamal5844]

Me too, huhuhu

[@preceillagrace3460]

bruh i need help :)

[@confusedornah]

God bless you 😊

[@suniladhikari2840]

Much Love sister 🤗

[@missfabidia]

❤❤❤

[@z.daniel6837]

👍

[@theporkchopexpress3939]

How are there only 2 comments