We’ve all heard the saying, “laughter is the best medicine.” But it turns out, that’s not just a feel-good phrase, it’s backed by science. Laughter is a powerful tool for improving mental, emotional, and even physical health. It connects us, lifts our mood, and helps us cope with life’s challenges.

What Happens When We Laugh?

Laughter triggers the release of endorphins, the brain’s feel-good chemicals. These natural mood boosters help reduce stress and promote a sense of wellbeing. At the same time, laughter lowers levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, and activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps the body relax and recover.

Physically, laughter improves blood flow, boosts immune function, and can even relieve pain. It’s also a natural workout as laughing engages your diaphragm, abs, and facial muscles, giving your body a gentle boost.

Laughter and Emotional Wellbeing

Laughter helps us feel more connected to others. Sharing a laugh builds trust, strengthens relationships, and fosters empathy. It’s a social glue that brings people together, especially in times of stress or uncertainty.

Emotionally, laughter provides perspective. It helps us reframe difficult situations and approach challenges with a lighter mindset. It’s not about ignoring problems, it’s about building resilience through joy.

How Laughter Benefits Students

For students, laughter can be a powerful stress reliever. Academic pressure, social dynamics, and personal challenges can take a toll, but laughter offers a healthy way to cope. It boosts mood, improves focus, and helps students feel more engaged and motivated.

Laughter also supports learning. When students are relaxed and happy, they’re more open to new ideas and better able to retain information. Humour can make lessons more memorable and foster a positive learning environment.

Encouraging laughter through playful activities, storytelling, or simply creating space for joy can help students build emotional resilience and strengthen peer relationships.

 

Finding Joy in Everyday Life

You don’t need a comedy show to laugh. Joy can be found in everyday moments: a funny conversation, a playful pet, or a silly dance in the kitchen. The key is to stay open to humour and give yourself permission to enjoy it.

Try watching a light-hearted film, joining a laughter yoga class, or spending time with people who make you laugh. Even a few minutes of genuine laughter each day can make a big difference.

Why Joy Matters

In a world that often feels serious and fast-paced, joy is essential. Laughter reminds us to breathe, connect, and find lightness even in tough times. It’s a simple, accessible way to support mental health and build emotional strength.

1. Recommended Resources

   • The Laughter Clinic (Australia) – Offers laughter therapy programs and workshops for wellbeing.
   • Laughter Yoga Australia – Learn how laughter can be used as a wellness practice.
   • Student Wellbeing Hub (Australia) – A government-supported platform with free tools and resources to support emotional wellbeing in students.

    

   Need assistance as a student at MCI?

Do you require assistance with your studies at MCI? Do you need a role play partner? Be reminded, to please reach out to your mentor. Finally, you always have the option and are encouraged to interact with other students by joining the MCI Student Facebook page.

If you would like to talk to an MCI Mentor, please click below:

All the best!