Can Comedy and Laughter Improve Mental Health? With David Granirer

In this inspiring and thought-provoking episode of The Hanley Effect, hosts Dr. John Dyben and Dr. Rachel Docekal sit down with award-winning mental health advocate, stand-up comic, and counselor David Granirer. David is the founder of Stand Up for Mental Health. This groundbreaking program teaches stand-up comedy to individuals living with mental health conditions—empowering them to find healing through humor.A champion for destigmatizing mental illness, David shares his personal journey living with bipolar disorder, his early struggles with undiagnosed depression, and how a brave step into comedy changed everything. From performing onstage to helping others rewrite their narratives with laughter, David’s work has reached thousands worldwide.Topics CoveredDavid’s personal experience with mental health and recoveryHow comedy became a healing force in his lifeThe creation and impact of Stand Up for Mental Health™The power of storytelling and humor in reducing stigmaWhy laughter can be deeply therapeutic (even if it’s not “therapy”)Encouraging alternative pathways to self-esteem, confidence, and connectionDavid’s work with diverse audiences—from the Secret Service to cancer patientsA few great one-liners from David himself (spoiler alert: he’s hilarious)About Our Guest: David GranirerDavid is a counselor, author of The Happy Neurotic, and founder of Stand Up for Mental Health. He lives with bipolar disorder and has used his lived experience and talents to educate and entertain while helping others recover. He has trained groups across 50+ cities worldwide and has been featured in the award-winning documentaries Cracking Up and Crack Up.Learn MoreVisit standupformentalhealth.com to explore David’s program and bring this powerful, life-affirming comedy movement to your community.To learn more about Hanley Foundation visit hanleyfoundation.org.