A man suffering from great depression became a patient of Freud, while the latter was practicing in Vienna.
After many weeks, frustrated by the lack of improvement in his patient, Freud said to him, “I’ve got an idea that may help you a lot. Last night I went to see Bozo the clown, who’s performing here. I couldn’t stop laughing all night. I believe he is the funniest man in the world. Laughter is the right kind of medicine for you, so I prescribe one week of Bozo the clown for you. For one week go and see him.
“I’m sorry, but I can’t do that,” said the patient.
“Why not?” exclaimed Freud.
“Because, you see,” replied the patient, “I am Bozo the clown.”