Health-Related Benefits of Humor and Laughter

Health-Related Benefits of Humor and Laughter is organized by Institute for Brain Potential (IBP).

Initial Release Date: 11/10/2020
Expiration Date: 11/10/2023

Duration: A 3-Hour Home Study Program for Health Professionals.

Description: 
In this 3-hour evidence-based program presented by Brian King, Ph.D., a neuroscientist/comedian, learn why a sense of humor and laughter is good for the brain and body, increase stress resilience, how they reduce pain, improve immune function, elevate mood, and reduce generalized anxiety.

Participants completing this program should be able to describe:
• How humor and laughter can be good for the brain and body.
• The benefits of the appropriate use of humor and laughter in medical settings.
• The benefits of humor for improving psychological health.
• The application of humor to promote healthful habits.

Why Humor is Good for the Brain and Body
Start the day off with a smile and get it over with
• Why We Laugh
• Stress-Related Hormones
• Immune Health
• Humor and Brain Health

Humor and Laughter in Medical Settings
Laughter is the best medicine
• Acute Pain
• Chronic Pain
• Heart-Warming Humor
• Cancer

Using Humor in Your Practice by Practicing Humor
Laughter is the closest distance between two people.
• Reducing Generalized Anxiety
• Depression
• Interpersonal Therapy
• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
• Positive Psychology
• Acceptance and Commitment
• Enhancing Mindfulness
• Difficult Conversations and Situations

Using Humor to Promote Healthful Habits
Good humor is an acceptance of reality
• Enhancing Willingness to Change
• The Humor-Habit
• Reducing Apprehension
• Changing How We Feel By Changing How We Think
• Calming An Overactive Brain