When was the last time you truly laughed?
Children laugh hundreds of times each day—often over the simplest things. Adults? Not nearly as often.
As we grow older, life becomes more complicated. Daily responsibilities, work, caregiving, financial concerns, illness, grief, and countless other obligations can gradually steal our joy if we let them. Add to that the constant stream of news, social media, and screen time, and many adults simply forget to make room for laughter.
What happens when we laugh?
Laughter is more than just a pleasant emotion. Research suggests that genuine laughter can reduce stress hormones such as cortisol while increasing the release of the body’s natural mood-enhancing chemicals, including endorphins, and serotonin. It helps relax muscles, lowers feelings of stress, strengthens social connections, and can improve resilience during difficult times.
I’m certainly not suggesting that laughter eliminates pain, loss, or hardship. Life will continue to present challenges, and some are profound. However, allowing ourselves moments of joy can provide emotional relief and help us face life’s difficulties with renewed perspective.
In therapy, we spend time addressing anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship concerns. But healing isn’t only about reducing distress. It is also about intentionally bringing positive experiences back into our lives and giving ourselves permission to enjoy them without guilt.
Laughter often comes naturally when we’re with people we enjoy, but it can also grow out of creative pursuits such as painting, music, photography, gardening, cooking, or simply spending time with a beloved pet. Animals have a wonderful ability to remain present and enjoy the moment—something many of us could learn from.
This week, challenge yourself to make room for laughter. Watch a funny movie. Spend time with someone who makes you smile. Read something humorous. Play with your dog. Look through old family photographs that bring back happy memories. Give yourself permission to be playful again.
Sometimes improving our mental health isn’t only about addressing what’s wrong. Sometimes it’s about intentionally making room for what’s right.