When Was the Last Time You Had a Proper Belly Laugh?

I often ask this question in my work with company executives and private clients.

Most people pause. Some chuckle awkwardly. And then there are the answers that stop me in my tracks.

One client, a successful professional, came to me feeling completely burnt out. When I asked, “What’s the number one thing I can help you with?” she said:

“I just want to be happy.”

I followed up with, “When was the last time you laughed so hard your stomach hurt?”

Her response floored me:

“At least seven years ago.”

Seven. Years. Without laughter. Without that moment where your face aches, your stomach cramps, and tears run down your cheeks.

This isn’t a one-off story. It’s a pattern. People are laughing less, and it’s affecting our mental health in ways we’re only just beginning to understand.

But why? And, more importantly, how do we fix it?

The Science of Laughter: Why We Can’t Afford to Lose It

Laughter isn’t just fun—it’s a biological necessity. Here’s what happens when you have a full-on, uncontrollable belly laugh:

• Cortisol (the stress hormone) drops – You instantly feel more relaxed.
• Endorphins (the happiness chemicals) flood your system – Boosting mood and reducing pain.
• Your immune system gets a kick – Laughter increases antibodies and activates protective cells.
• Heart health improves – Blood pressure drops, circulation increases, and stress melts away.

And yet, adults laugh an average of just 17 times a day, while children laugh up to 300 times. Life becomes serious somewhere between childhood and adulthood, and we stop laughing.

This isn’t just about feeling better. It’s about living longer. Studies show that people who laugh more tend to live longer, healthier lives.

So why is laughter disappearing? Well, one reason might be right in front of us—our screens.

The Death of Comedy on TV – Where Have All the Laughs Gone?

There was a time when British TV was packed with comedy. Families gathered around to watch sitcoms, sketch shows, and stand-up specials. Comedy was mainstream.

📺 Fawlty Towers, The Young Ones, Terry and June, Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em, Are You Being Served?, The Two Ronnies, and of course, the legendary Tommy Cooper.

✨ Live at the London Palladium was a showcase for the best comedians in the country.

💥 Only Fools and Horses could pull in over 24 million viewers—half the UK population then!

Now? Comedy has been pushed to the sidelines.

🚨 Did You Know?

• Only Fools and Horses once pulled 24 million viewers. The most-watched sitcom in 2024? Barely 2 million.
• The Two Ronnies, Morecambe & Wise, and Tommy Cooper were prime-time. Now? Comedy gets shoved to niche channels like Dave.
• BBC cut its comedy budget by over 40%, and Live at the Apollo barely gets new episodes.
• A 41% Drop in New Comedy Shows – Broadcasters have slashed their comedy budgets, making it the hardest-hit genre on TV. (Chortle)
• Streaming Services Prioritise Drama – Comedy is often seen as “too local,” making it harder to export. As a result, platforms like Netflix and Amazon favour generic dramas over British humour.
• Cancel Culture & Fear of Offence – Comedians are walking on eggshells. Even Jerry Seinfeld has blamed the “extreme left” for the demise of TV comedy, saying that comedians are now afraid to take risks. (Deadline)

Think about it—when was the last time a new sitcom became a cultural phenomenon?

Today, if you want comedy, you must search for it—on YouTube, podcasts, or niche channels like Dave.

No wonder we’re laughing less.

Top Tips to Bring More Laughter Into Your Life

If TV isn’t giving us the laughs anymore, we must take matters into our own hands.

1️⃣ Seek Out Comedy

Actively watch, listen to, or attend something funny. Go to a comedy night. Revisit a classic sitcom. Put on a stand-up special instead of another crime drama.

2️⃣ Surround Yourself with People Who Make You Laugh

Misery loves company—but so does laughter. Spend time with friends, family, or colleagues who bring out your silly side.

3️⃣ Practice Smiling

It sounds simple, but smiling (even when you don’t feel like it) tricks your brain into feeling happier. It releases the same feel-good chemicals as laughter.

4️⃣ Revisit the Classics

If modern comedy isn’t doing it for you, remember what worked. Watch an old episode of Morecambe and Wise, Tommy Cooper, or Only Fools and Horses—and see how quickly you feel better.

5️⃣ Do More of What Makes You Laugh

Laughter isn’t just about watching a funny video—it’s a mindset, a habit, and a choice. Here’s how to bring more of it into your life:

• Enjoy laughing alone – Seek out things that always make you laugh, whether it’s your favourite stand-up special, a nostalgic sitcom, or even just scrolling through funny memes.
• Laugh with others using humour – Share jokes, memes, or funny clips with friends, and don’t be afraid to be the person who starts the laughter.
• Laugh with others without humour – Laughter doesn’t always need a joke. Try adding more laughter to ordinary conversations—it might feel silly at first, but the joy it brings is absolute.
• Do more of what makes you laugh – Remember the last time you had a proper belly laugh. What were you doing? Watching a rom-com? Playing a ridiculous game with friends? Do more of that.
• Adopt a playful state of mind. Life is serious enough, so don’t let it always be heavy. Make space for fun, silliness, and curiosity. Try new things, be spontaneous, and allow yourself moments of pure, unfiltered joy.

Final Thought: When Was the Last Time You Had a Proper Belly Laugh?

Laughter is free. It has zero side effects. And yet, we’re experiencing less of it every day.

The world is serious enough. Maybe it’s time to bring back the fun.

💬 Your turn! Answer one (or all) in the comments:
1️⃣ What’s the last thing that made you laugh so hard you couldn’t breathe?
2️⃣ What’s the funniest TV show, film, or clip you always return to?
3️⃣ What’s something ridiculous you’ve done that still makes you laugh?

P.S. If you want to bring more joy, laughter, and fun into your personal or professional life, let’s chat. It could be the best investment in your well-being you’ve ever made. 😊

PS: The best time to prioritise your mental health was yesterday. The second-best time is now.

Mike Lawrence: Your Guide to Health & Wellbeing

I’m Mike Lawrence, a passionate advocate for mental health and wellbeing. After overcoming significant health challenges, including brain surgery, I’ve dedicated myself to a journey of self-improvement and helping others thrive. From heart-pounding skydives for charity to soul-enriching travels in Thailand, my experiences have shaped my approach to holistic health.

I love sharing the lessons I’ve learned from these adventures and the powerful audiobooks I devour. Let’s explore the paths to better mental and physical health together. Embrace life’s adventures with enthusiasm and resilience, and remember—you’re never alone on this journey!

Feel free to email me at hello@mikelawrence.co.uk or connect with me on LinkedIn. For more in-depth insights and inspiring stories, read my latest blogs here. Together, let’s create a healthier, happier future!