Is Laughter the Best Medicine? A Humorous Exploration with a Side of Science

Photo by Helena Lopes

At Ben Selby Counselling, there are times when there is laughter alongside the tears. This might sound like the setup for a bittersweet dramatic moment in a feel-good movie, but in reality, it’s something we encounter more often than you’d think. It turns out that in the midst of life’s challenges, humour isn’t just an occasional respite—it might just be one of the most effective tools we have in our emotional toolkit. But is laughter really the "best medicine," or is it just a nice way to break the ice during an awkward therapy session? Let’s dive into the delightful world of humour, mental health, and why it might just be your secret weapon for fighting anxiety and depression.

The Science of Laughter: Is It More Than Just a Gut Reaction?

Before we start cracking jokes, it’s important to know that humour has a very real impact on our mental health. In fact, it’s so powerful that it could almost be considered a psychological superpower.

According to Dr. William Fry, a psychiatrist who pioneered research on the physiological effects of laughter, laughter has been shown to reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol and trigger the release of endorphins—those magical brain chemicals that give you that warm, euphoric feeling. So, the next time you’re laughing at a bad pun or a viral cat video, know that you’re not just indulging in a moment of light-hearted fun; you’re also giving your body and mind a little spa treatment.

But the effects of laughter don’t end there. Studies have shown that humour can help increase pain tolerance, improve immune function, and even enhance cognitive function. All of these factors contribute to better overall mental health. Laughter, it seems, is far more than just a by-product of watching stand-up comedy or sharing a funny meme—it’s actually helping to keep your brain and body in balance.

Laughter as a Buffer Against Anxiety

Anxiety can often feel like an unwelcome guest who overstays their welcome, and it can make everyday situations seem overwhelmingly daunting. But when you introduce humour into the equation, something fascinating happens. Humour acts as a cognitive tool that allows us to reframe stressful situations.

In a study published in Psychiatry Research, researchers found that people who regularly engaged in humour therapy (such as watching funny movies or attending comedy shows) reported significant reductions in anxiety symptoms. The reason? Humour offers a way to distance ourselves from the emotional weight of a situation. It’s like stepping back and looking at life through a funhouse mirror—everything still looks a little distorted, but it’s easier to laugh at it.

In the context of counselling, this is where humour becomes an invaluable tool. A well-timed joke or light-hearted comment can create a moment of connection between the counsellor and the client. It helps break the ice and provides a brief respite from the intensity of processing heavy emotions. Of course, humour isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, but it can be a gentle way to acknowledge the absurdity of life while still offering comfort.

The Role of Humour in Treating Depression

Depression, much like anxiety, can cast a long, gloomy shadow over someone’s life. But there’s evidence to suggest that humour might be one of the most powerful ways to counteract that shadow.

A ground-breaking study conducted by Dr. Edward B. R. Jones, a psychologist at the University of California, found that individuals who participated in humour-based therapy showed improvements in mood, increased levels of energy, and better overall functioning. Humour in therapy sessions isn’t just a distraction; it can actually provide a sense of agency and empowerment for people struggling with depression. When we laugh, even in the most difficult moments, we remind ourselves that joy is still within reach—even if it’s just for a brief moment.

Humour also helps people reframe negative thought patterns, which is a core principle of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). In CBT, clients learn to identify and challenge harmful thinking patterns. Humour can be a particularly effective tool in this process because it allows people to see their negative thoughts in a more playful, less threatening light. It’s hard to take yourself too seriously when you’re laughing at the absurdity of your overblown fears.

In fact, some researchers argue that humour might be a form of cognitive diffusion, a technique commonly used in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). This technique involves distancing yourself from negative thoughts so that they don’t have the power to control your emotions. Humour provides a unique way of doing this—when you can laugh at your problems, they lose some of their power over you.

The Social Connection of Laughter

Another key aspect of laughter’s therapeutic power is its ability to foster social connections. Have you ever noticed that the most genuine moments of joy often happen when you’re surrounded by others who "get" your sense of humour? Whether it’s with friends, family, or even a supportive therapist, laughter creates a bond that reinforces feelings of acceptance and understanding.

Research has shown that social laughter has profound effects on our mental health. A study published in The Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease demonstrated that group laughter sessions improved both mood and anxiety levels in participants. Social laughter promotes the release of oxytocin, the hormone responsible for creating feelings of trust and connection. This is why shared laughter feels so good—it’s literally bonding us on a biological level.

In a therapy setting, humour can act as a bridge between the client and the counsellor. When the laughter comes naturally, it creates a more relaxed atmosphere, making it easier for the client to open up and share vulnerable emotions. After all, laughter helps us feel less alone. And for many individuals’ experiencing anxiety or depression, feeling isolated is one of the most challenging aspects of their condition.

Not All Laughter Is Created Equal

While laughter has numerous psychological benefits, it’s important to note that not all forms of humour are equally helpful. In fact, humour that relies on sarcasm, ridicule, or self-deprecation can actually exacerbate feelings of anxiety or depression. For instance, constantly cracking jokes at your own expense can reinforce negative self-beliefs and perpetuate a cycle of low self-esteem.

The most beneficial type of humour, according to researchers, is self-enhancing humour—a style that involves maintaining a positive, light-hearted perspective on life’s challenges. This kind of humour helps individuals cope with adversity and bounce back from setbacks. It’s a reminder that, even in our darkest moments, laughter can be a form of resilience.

The Bottom Line: Why Laughter Matters

So, is laughter the best medicine? Well, according to science, it certainly seems to be a powerful tool for improving mental health. It reduces stress, boosts mood, strengthens social connections, and offers a unique way of reframing life’s challenges. But just like any medicine, it works best when it’s used in the right dosage and in the right context.

Humour, when harnessed properly, can become a therapeutic ally in the fight against anxiety, depression, and other mental health struggles. It won’t cure everything, but it can certainly help pave the way for healing. And let’s be honest—if you’re going to go through life’s trials and tribulations, it might as well be with a smile on your face and a joke ready to go.

So the next time you’re feeling a little down, maybe take a moment to laugh—whether it’s watching a funny video, reminiscing about a hilarious moment with a friend, or just sharing a good, old-fashioned laugh in therapy. It might just be the best medicine you never knew you needed.

In conclusion, laughter: 1, Anxiety and Depression: 0.