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Laughter: A Simple Remedy for Stress

Older-adult couple sitting on sofa at home, laughing while looking at cellphone

Stress is a part of life, but humor can help lighten the load. While it may not eliminate stress entirely, laughter triggers brain chemicals that boost mood and promote relaxation.

Make it a habit to laugh often— whether through TV, movies, online videos, or jokes. Humor is personal, so find what genuinely makes you laugh, even if others don’t share your sense of humor. With endless sources of comedy online, from memes to funny stories, a daily dose of laughter is always within reach.

Surround yourself with things that bring joy, like joke-a-day calendars, funny T-shirts, or lighthearted stickers. Keep a “humor file” filled with comics, memes, and jokes for an instant mood boost—one you can also share with others who might need a lift.

Best of all, laughter requires no prescription and has no side effects. But if stress feels overwhelming, consult a physician to rule out underlying health concerns and explore additional ways to manage it.

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