Laughter is a powerful biochemical process that reduces cortisol and adrenaline levels, says psychiatrist Evgeny Kulgavchuk.

‘Sincere laughter dramatically reduces cortisol (the stress hormone) and adrenaline levels.

It also releases endorphins (natural painkillers that produce a feeling of mild euphoria). Also, dopamine (the pleasure and reward hormone that provides a sense of satisfaction.

In addition, laughter activates and then relaxes almost all muscle groups.

‘It’s even like cardio training: albeit short, but still intense, blood pressure rises briefly due to the activation of the sympathetic system, but then drops steadily and permanently,’ the expert added.

Laughter improves the elasticity of blood vessels and gives the heart a beneficial jolt.

We can also talk about immunomodulation: the level of immunoglobulin A (IgA) in saliva (the first line of defense of the mucous membranes against viruses) increases, and T-lymphocytes are also activated.

Humor is most effective for anxiety disorders and catastrophizing: it helps to build a ‘horrible’ scenario to its logical, and then absurd, conclusion, the doctor said.

‘Humor can also be effective for psychosomatic disorders, as it has a direct impact on physiology. Reducing overall cortisol levels through regular laughter directly reduces symptom severity.

Additionally, humor can be helpful for PTSD and trauma. ‘It should be used very carefully and only in the later stages.

After the main stages of trauma processing have been completed, humor helps to ‘reclaim’ the power of the traumatic memory,’ the expert explained.

However, in some situations, humor can be harmful. ‘In practice, this is what’s called defensive humor. The patient laughs and jokes to avoid approaching a painful topic.

As soon as something truly traumatic is touched upon, a joke ensues, and contact with feelings is lost,’ the psychiatrist explained.

Destructive humor (sarcasm, ridicule, devaluation) retraumatizes and reinforces negative self-esteem.

‘Humor is only possible based on strong trust. It’s also impossible to joke with a patient in an acute crisis or immediately after a serious loss.

Its main criterion for usefulness is that it should broaden perspective, provide relief, and be appropriate within the context of the therapeutic process.

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