Making jokes in dreadful situations is a psychological tool for gaining control and transcending despair. It's not about mocking victims but managing trauma. Studies show that individuals who appreciate dark humor tend to score higher on IQ tests and exhibit lower aggression.
Contrary to avoiding negative thoughts, contemplating dire situations and planning for them is a healthy mental exercise. This proactive problem-solving removes the element of surprise, builds confidence, and creates a sense of control, enabling faster and more certain action during an actual crisis.
In emergencies, everyday objects can be repurposed for survival. War correspondents and survival experts use condoms as tourniquets or waterproof containers, tampons to plug puncture wounds, and high-proof alcohol like vodka as an antiseptic cleanser when water is unavailable.
Research shows social determinants of health, dictated by your location, have a greater impact on your well-being and lifespan than your DNA. These factors include access to quality food, medical care, and environmental safety, highlighting deep systemic inequalities in healthcare outcomes.
While dog bites cause most rabies deaths worldwide, bat bites are the primary source of human fatalities in the U.S. Their bites can be painless and leave no visible marks, meaning victims often don't realize they were bitten and fail to seek immediate, life-saving treatment.