We’ve all heard the phrase, “laughter is the best medicine.” It turns out—it’s not just a saying. Laughter has real, measurable benefits for both your physical and mental health. And in a world that can feel heavy, stressful, and fast-paced, laughter can be a powerful (and often overlooked) wellness tool.

At Indy Mental Health and Wellness, we believe healing doesn’t always have to be heavy. Sometimes, it can be lighthearted, playful, and full of joy. Here’s what the science says about how laughter can support your mental health—and how to welcome more of it into your life.

What Happens in Your Brain When You Laugh?

Laughter triggers a complex chain of reactions in the brain and body. When you laugh, your brain releases:

· Dopamine, the “feel-good” chemical

· Endorphins, your body’s natural painkillers

· Oxytocin, the “bonding” hormone that fosters connection

It also reduces levels of cortisol, the stress hormone.

In other words, laughter isn’t just an emotional response—it’s a full-body experience that can lift your mood, calm your nervous system, and deepen your relationships.

Mental Health Benefits of Laughter

Reduces Stress

Laughter interrupts stress responses and helps regulate your nervous system. Even a few minutes of genuine laughter can leave you feeling more relaxed and grounded.

Boosts Mood

Laughter increases dopamine, which improves mood and reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety. It’s a quick, natural mood booster—no side effects required.

Strengthens Connection

Laughing with others fosters feelings of safety, belonging, and emotional closeness. In couples or families, shared laughter can ease conflict and improve communication.

Improves Perspective

Laughter gives us a break from overthinking, catastrophizing, or rigid thinking patterns. It can help us zoom out and access a more flexible, creative mindset.

Builds Resilience

When we can laugh even a little in difficult moments, we build emotional resilience. Laughter doesn’t minimize pain—it reminds us we’re still human, still connected, and still capable of joy.

Is Laughter Therapy a Real Thing?

Yes! Laughter therapy—or humor therapy—uses intentional laughter to support emotional healing. It’s used in hospitals, wellness workshops, and even some forms of group or individual therapy. Some therapists (me!) integrate humor naturally into their work as a way to create trust and reduce shame.

And good news: your brain doesn’t always know the difference between genuine and intentional laughter. Even “fake” laughter can still trigger positive responses!

How to Invite More Laughter into Your Life

You don’t need to become a stand-up comic to laugh more. Try these:

· Watch a favorite funny show or comedy special

· Spend time with people who make you laugh

· Follow accounts that share light, wholesome humor

· Play a silly game or try improv with a partner or friend

· Give yourself permission to laugh—even in hard times

· Reflect on inside jokes or funny memories

Laughter isn’t about ignoring your problems. It’s about giving your nervous system a break, reconnecting with joy, and remembering your wholeness.

Laughter isn’t a cure-all—but it is a powerful tool in your mental health toolkit. It’s free, it’s contagious, and it’s deeply human.

At Indy Mental Health and Wellness, I believe in a holistic approach to mental health—one that honors both the grief and the joy, the tears and the laughter.

If you’re feeling disconnected from joy, therapy can help you get back to yourself—including the parts of you that love to laugh.

Click HERE to schedule an appointment!