The purpose of this study is to elucidate the experience of persons with depression who are participating in a Self Help Group for depression (hereinafter referred as SHG). The data collected by participant observation and semi-structured interview targeting 15 SHG members, and analyzed qualitatively. Subjects suffered from feelings of isolation in daily living, such as "agony due to depression" and "pain due to not being understood." They participated in SHG with such backgrounds and positioned SHG as "a place to share depression with fellow company." Furthermore, they felt "fufflilment as a group member," and at the same time learning how to "understand and accept depression." However, the subjects considered the direction of future activities, while feeling difficulties of managing SHG, due to the "limits of the peer support" resulting from ambiguity in knowledge of depression and the management of SHG by persons experiencing depression themselves. From the above, the importance of SHG as a place for persons suffering from depression to meet and talk to each other, and as a method of support recognized by professionals for the management of effective SHG, could be pointed out.

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Humor is said to be a powerful communication tool that may help to alleviate tension between patients and nurses. A literature review was conducted to identify situations in which medical professionals used humor during interactions with patients. Additionally, the patients' responses were evaluated. A search of relevant cases from 2001 to 2011 in the online version of Igakuchuozasshi (Japana Centra Revuo Medicina) was conducted. A total of 25 studies with relevant research questions met the inclusion criteria. A content analysis revealed six situations in which humor was used as a tool: (1) developing interpersonal relationships; (2) stimulating daily lives; (3) easing negative feelings; (4) controlling emotions; (5) eliciting feelings and desires; (6) using a therapeutic approach. 'The patients' reactions to the humor included: (1) feelings of light-heartedness; (2) relief from anxiety; (3) recovery of self. It is suggested that continuous use of humor in caring for people with mental illnesses may alleviate symptoms and aid recovery.

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