The Surprising Mental Health Benefits of Humor

Life can be hard, and sometimes it feels like the universe is testing your patience like a toddler with a crayon on freshly painted walls. But what if I told you that laughter—not just any laughter, but the kind that makes your sides hurt and your face cramp—is one of the best tools for improving mental health?  Let’s dive into the science and joy behind why humor isn’t just good for your soul but can also help you combat sadness, reduce stress, and even alleviate symptoms of depression. As Katt Williams famously said, "You gotta be in tune with your star player," and trust me, your star player deserves a good laugh.

Humor as a Sadness Combatant

When you're sad, everything feels heavy, like carrying a backpack full of bricks—and for what? A bad breakup? A missed promotion? Forgetting your phone charger at home? Humor can feel like taking that backpack off, even if just for a moment.  Why it works: Laughter releases endorphins, those magical chemicals that make you feel good. It’s like your brain’s natural happy juice, reminding you that even when things seem bleak, there’s a silver lining (or at least a meme-worthy punchline).  Laughter reduces cortisol levels (aka stress hormones) in your body. The physical act of laughing relaxes your muscles, lowers your blood pressure, and helps you feel calmer. Think of it as a mental mini-vacation.  Quick Tip: Turn to your favorite comedian, like Katt Williams. His over-the-top delivery and "keep it real" moments can take the edge off even the most stressful situations. After all, who can think about deadlines while laughing at "people who’ve got gas station confidence but no gas in their car?"

Humor as a Distraction from Stress

Sometimes, life’s problems feel overwhelming, like trying to solve a Rubik’s Cube blindfolded. Humor doesn’t solve the puzzle, but it gives you a chance to set it down for a minute.  Why it works: Focusing on something funny can shift your perspective and take your mind off what’s bothering you. It’s like hitting the pause button on stress and letting your brain chill for a bit.  

What You Can Do:

• Watch a comedy special.

• Scroll through memes (yes, it counts).

• Call that friend who always makes you laugh—bonus points if they can laugh at themselves.

"A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones (Prov 17:22)”.

Humor as a Depression Symptom Reducer

Let’s be real, depression is no joke. But humor can be an ally in the fight against it. When you're feeling low, it might seem impossible to find joy, but even the tiniest giggle can be a spark.  Studies have shown that humor can improve mood, foster social connection, and make challenging emotions feel more manageable. It’s not a cure, but it’s a reminder that light exists even in the darkest places.  Lean into positive humor that builds you up rather than sarcasm or self-deprecating jokes.  

Final Thoughts: Keep Laughing Through It All

Humor doesn’t erase life’s challenges, but it helps you face them with a little more grace (and maybe a belly laugh). The next time sadness creeps in or stress tries to steal your joy, remember to tune in to your "star player" and let humor be your guide.  "If you ain’t laughing, you ain’t living!"  

*Sadness and depression are often confused, but they are not the same. Sadness is a temporary emotional response to life's challenges, while depression is a prolonged mental health condition that impacts how you think, feel, and function. If symptoms like persistent low mood, loss of interest, or fatigue last longer than 4-6 weeks, it’s important to seek help from a behavioral health counselor, a religious leader, or a trusted adult. If these symptoms include suicidal thoughts, immediate medical attention is crucial.  Laughter is not about ignoring your problems; it’s about shifting your mindset to better face them. Complementing humor, activities like spending time in nature, talking with friends, practicing stress relievers like meditation, yoga, Reiki, or journaling, can significantly help offset symptoms of depression and improve overall mental well-being. These small steps can create a ripple effect, helping you find light even in dark moments.

Now It’s Your Turn:

What’s the funniest thing that’s happened to you recently? Share it in the comments—it might just brighten someone else’s day. And remember: keep smiling, keep laughing, and keep thriving!