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Comedian Robin Williams once said that every time you get depressed, comedy will be there to drag you out of it. But does humor really help? A researcher from SWPS University investigated the potential of using humor to treat depressive states. She found that while it could act as a natural stress buffer, it typically does more harm than good during the acute phase of the illness.

Can humor serve as a remedy for depression? While it can improve mood and boost resilience against everyday worries, depression is a serious disorder that requires appropriate specialized treatment. It is one of the most prevalent mental health conditions worldwide, with over 280 million people diagnosed. The condition involves profound suffering and impairs daily activities.

Despite advances in treatments for depression, their overall effectiveness and durability remain limited. Some researchers have argued that a contributing factor is the prevailing emphasis on reducing symptoms, with less focus on positive functioning and well-being. That is why experts have increasingly advocated for a more comprehensive approach to depression treatment.

In this context, humor is a promising tool that may counteract the main factors contributing to depression, including rumination and reduced positive emotions.

"The impact of humor on mental health is supported by neuroimaging studies. , of the SWPS University Faculty of Psychology in Warsaw. Braniecka is the author of a study described in Clinical Psychology Review .

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