Dealing with Depression Tip #4

Laughter Really is the Best Medicine

Did you know that laughter can help in the treatment of depression and anxiety? It reduces potentially harmful stress hormones in the body while increasing levels of health-enhancing hormones. All this means lower stress, a stronger immune system, and fewer body aches and pains. It also brightens your mood and improves your sense of well–being. Laughter can help you connect with others, reduce social anxiety, and see problems from a more lighthearted perspective.

Try these ideas for bringing more laughter into your life:

• See a funny movie or watch a comedy on TV.
• Listen to tapes of funny jokes and stories.
• Read comics or humor books.
• Share a laugh with a friend.
• Go to a comedy club.
• Have a party or game night.
• Place a funny photo that makes you smile or laugh (of yourself or of a
  happy family event) on your refrigerator or desk.
• Cut out a newspaper cartoon that makes you laugh and hang it where
  you can see it.
• Buy a journal to record funny jokes and stories you hear each day.
• Tell a joke.

Put on a happy face. Even a smiled that starts out “forced” has been shown to have
positive effects!

Previous Tips

Helping Your Loved Ones Cope with Depression
Women and Depression
Physical Activity can Reduce Effects of Depression


Visit our online Health Encyclopedia for helpful information about Depression.

Posted: April 25, 2007