#72 How Laughter Lifts Us Up: Exploring Comedy, Coping, and Connection with Comedy/Therapy Duo Amber Autry & Melanie Reese, LMFT

In this episode we explore the therapeutic power of humor with comedian Amber Autry and therapist Melanie Reese. From using laughter to cope with stress and grief, to understanding how comedy can complement traditional therapy, this conversation highlights how joy and mental health intersect in unexpected ways.Amber and Melanie share the origin of their podcast I’m Fine, It's Fine and how comedians often process deep emotions through humor. Melanie brings insight into how laughter impacts the nervous system, lowers stress hormones, and serves as a “reset button” for the brain. Together, they illustrate how humor can be both a coping strategy and a tool for connection.Key Takeaways:Humor can be both a therapeutic tool and a form of comic relief that helps process difficult emotions.Comedy and laughter positively impact the nervous system, lowering stress and promoting connection.Therapy doesn’t have to be traditional; activities like storytelling, creative expression, or laughing with others can provide meaningful healing.Life’s hardest moments and funniest moments often coexist, and embracing both can be therapeutic.Resources & Links:Amber Autry & Melanie Reese: I’m Fine Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/im-fine-its-fine/id1664241532Melanie Reese, Trauma Therapy of Nashvillehttps://integrativetherapynashville.com/Amber Autry (comedian)https://www.amberautrycomedy.com/Want to share your story, give us feedback or offer up an episode idea? Reach out! We'd love to hear from you. Insta:  @collegeisfinepodcastTik Tok: @collegeisfinepodcastEmail: [email protected] is Deadbeats by Rex Banner