Skip to main content

You make this possible. Support our independent, nonprofit newsroom today.

Give Now

Surviving the Big Dark with laughter

Seattle Now Logo - NPR Network
Enlarge Icon

The Big Dark is upon us again as daylight grows scarcer in Seattle. Between seasonal affective disorder and the impending holidays, it can be a tough time of year for our mental health.

Today, we’re looking at comedy as a coping mechanism during these dark, cold months.

Seattle comedian Chris Mejia will tell us how he incorporates his depression into his work, and UW professor Tabitha Kirkland will explain why laughter helps our bodies and minds stay healthy.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis or considering self-harm, call or text 988 for help. You can also contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.

We need your help to power KUOW and Seattle Now this Giving Tuesday! Donations made today will be doubled by the Raynier Institute and Foundation, up to $150,000. Donate here: https://www.kuow.org/donate/seattlenow

And we want to hear from you! Follow us on Instagram at SeattleNowPod, or leave us feedback online: https://www.kuow.org/feedback

Why you can trust KUOW