OBSERVER: Comedy Is Best Medicine
Beyond Blue and the Melbourne International Comedy Festival collaborated for the first time to present a special comedy showcase highlighting the power of laughter to build connection and mental wellbeing.
Best Medicine was presented in the Supper Room at the Melbourne Town Hall, hosted by award-winning British comedian Carl Donnelly and featuring six celebrated festival comedians.
Beyond Blue CEO Georgie Harman said: “Laughter can create space to breathe when life feels heavy and spark the kind of connection that reminds us of our shared experience and that we’re all in this together.
“Studies show that spontaneous laughter can lower cortisol levels, the body’s stress hormone, meaning it really is some of the best medicine to improve our wellbeing.”
Melbourne International Comedy Festival Executive Director, Dylan Cole agrees. “Comedy and mental wellbeing have always been closely connected, so partnering with Beyond Blue on the Best Medicine showcase is a natural fit. “We hope this event encourages people to connect, talk, and to reach out when they need support – as well as leave them with a good dose of laughter.”
Host Carl Donnelly believes that comedy is a way for people to get through tough times.
“Right now a lot of us need that release more than ever. Audiences are resonating with that kind of honesty when we talk about mental health, and comedy is becoming almost like a safe space for those conversations.”
Comedian and Best Medicine performer, Sam Zito, talked openly about his mental health struggles.
“I’ve been really open about my own mental health because when you’re struggling, everything feels heavy.
“But when you get yourself to a better place, humour starts to come back into even the serious moments.
“That’s exactly what the Best Medicine show represents – giving people a chance to laugh before life starts piling up again.”
Proceeds from the production went towards funding Beyond Blue’s free, 24/7 phone and webchat support service;
Ms Harman said Beyond Blue was thrilled to have partnered with the festival. “It marks 40 years of community and celebration through laughter.”
The Beyond Blue Support Service is free and available 24/7 on 1300 22 4636 or online beyondblue.org.au/getsupport
Cheryl Threadgold
Pictured: Beyond Blue CEO Georgie Harman opens Best Medicine.