How To: Stop laughing in inappropriate situations

Have you ever found something funny in an awkward situation? When you feel a laugh coming, it can sometimes be hard to avoid. Check out these steps to stop your laugh before it gets you in trouble.

There are times when laughter is not called for. Because your charm may not be enough to save you, try some other ways to stop the laughter.

Step 1: Know what is inappropriate

Know when it is inappropriate to laugh. If you are unsure, ask your mother, or someone you can trust.

Step 2: Check others

Check out others in the room to see if they share your impulse. If they don't, divert your attention quickly by starting another conversation.

Step 3: Think of sad things

Think negative or sad thoughts to dampen your mood.

TIP: It's usually tension that precedes outbreaks of inappropriate laughter.

Step 4: Pinch yourself

Pinch yourself or bite the inside of your mouth or your lip to contain yourself. Physical pain can quell laughter.

Step 5: Disguise your reaction

Disguise your reaction by faking a coughing fit, using your hand to cover your grin. This allows you to leave the room and compose yourself.

Step 6: Let out air

Clamp a hand over your mouth and exhale quickly to rob the laugh of fuel. If caught, apologize without trying to explain, which may add insult to injury.

TIP: A laugh can appear to be a crying fit if you are at a funeral or in a sad situation, but it will take good acting.

Step 7: Grit to avoid

Grit your teeth while pushing your tongue against your pallet. If you have to release it, do it without a smile so people aren't sure what you're responding to.

Did you know? Pathologic laughing or crying can result from severe brain injury.