Cleveland Clinic Psychologist Highlights the Real Mental Health Benefits of Laughter

CLEVELAND — As April Fools’ Day invited playful pranks and shared laughter, Cleveland Clinic psychologist Dr. Kia-Rai Prewitt encouraged people to recognize humor not just as entertainment, but as a valuable tool for mental wellness.

“A lot of people, they may hold tension in their bodies, and so by laughing, it also gives you a chance to actually exhale and release some of that tension that you may be holding,” said Dr. Prewitt.

According to Dr. Prewitt, laughter can serve as an emotional release that helps reduce daily stress and improve mood. This is attributed to the brain’s response to humor, which includes the release of feel-good chemicals that promote a sense of well-being.

Humor also plays an important social role. “It's really just a good way to enjoy company with other people when you find something mutual that you can laugh about. Now, of course, you don't want to laugh at anyone else's expense. But if there's a shared joke or something that most people would find funny, and you've got someone that you can share that with, it really can be a good way to connect with someone,” Dr. Prewitt said.

Beyond mood improvement and stress relief, laughter can foster stronger interpersonal connections and help people navigate challenging times with a more optimistic perspective. Dr. Prewitt noted that not everyone finds humor easily accessible, and that’s okay. She encourages individuals to discover their own pathways to laughter, whether through watching a funny movie, attending a comedy show, or simply spending time with those who bring joy.

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