A Prescription for Laughter

As a pharmacist, I’ve written many prescriptions over the years—but today, I’m writing one that doesn’t require a trip to the pharmacy, a co-pay, or even a glass of water to swallow. 

Rx: Laughter  Sig: Take liberally. Refill as often as needed. Side effects may include better mood, lower blood pressure, and spontaneous joy. 

That’s right. On this April Fools’ Day, I’m prescribing laughter—not just because it’s fun, but because it’s good for your health. 

Its effects are well documented. The National Library of Medicine has a great compilation of the benefits of laughter which include immune system support and cardiovascular health. 

Boost Immune System Laughter decreases stress hormones and increases immune cells and infection-fighting antibodies, thus improving your resistance to disease. It also triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals, promoting an overall sense of well-being and can even temporarily relieve pain. 

Improve Heart Health Laughter improves the function of blood vessels and increases blood flow, which can help protect you against cardiovascular problems. One study found that laughing for 10–15 min a day can burn approximately 40 calories! 

Improve Mental Health  It feels good to laugh! And that positive feeling remains with you even after the laughter subsides. Humor helps you keep a positive, optimistic outlook through difficult situations, disappointments, and loss. 

In a world that often feels too heavy, laughter gives us a chance to breathe, connect, and reset. 

At Community Health Centers of Arkansas, we know that wellness isn’t just about numbers on a chart or medications in a bottle, it Is about the whole person. Joy, humor, and human connection are part of that equation. 

So, whether you're sharing a laugh with a coworker, giggling at a corny joke from your child, or just enjoying a funny memory, I hope you’ll let yourself embrace the lighter side of life today. 

Because your health is no joke. But laughter? It’s part of the cure.