A new study has highlighted the powerful effects of laughter, revealing that sharing a good giggle can improve mental well-being in ways comparable to acts of kindness, such as giving to charity. The poll, commissioned by Babybel as part of their long-standing partnership with Comic Relief, surveyed 2,000 adults across the UK, uncovering the significant mood-boosting power of laughter.
The findings show that 54% of Brits feel noticeably happier after sharing a laugh with others, while 55% of those surveyed reported feeling more positive after performing charitable acts like donating to a good cause. These results come as Babybel gears up for this year’s Red Nose Day, part of its ongoing support for Comic Relief, a relationship that has lasted over 25 years and raised over £1.75 million.
Laughter vs. Other Well-Being Activities
The study provides insight into how Brits rank various activities in terms of their positive impact on mental well-being. Sharing a laugh came out on top, with 48% of respondents saying it helped their well-being more than other popular activities such as exercising (40%), reading a book (31%), or eating out (28%).
The findings suggest that laughter has an immediate effect on improving mood and reducing stress. More than half of those polled (53%) said that having a laugh with friends helps them feel less stressed, and nearly half (49%) believe that sharing a joke strengthens relationships with others. These results underscore the growing body of research suggesting that social interactions, especially those that involve laughter, are essential to maintaining mental health and well-being.
Spreading Laughter: Sam Thompson Joins the Campaign
In the run-up to Red Nose Day, Babybel enlisted the help of reality TV star and ‘King of the Jungle’ Sam Thompson to bring some much-needed cheer to commuters. Thompson, who has become known for his light-hearted nature, took to the streets of London to share a giggle with passers-by at Waterloo Station. His aim was to spread joy and remind the public of the importance of taking a moment to laugh, especially during stressful times.
Thompson’s efforts come after he was awarded a Guinness World Record earlier this year for giving the most hugs in 60 seconds, with a total of 88. Speaking about his involvement in the campaign, he said, “Laughter was one of the things that helped me get through life in the jungle! I’ve always loved having a good laugh with friends, and it’s amazing to see the benefits it can have, especially when combined with acts of kindness like donating to Comic Relief.”
Thompson’s appearance in London was part of Babybel’s wider campaign to raise awareness for Red Nose Day, which will take place on 15 March. Babybel has been supporting Comic Relief for over two decades, and their “Share a Giggle” initiative aims to raise both awareness and donations. This year, the company will donate 5p from each specially branded pack of Babybel sold to Comic Relief, with a goal of spreading both giggles and goodwill across the country.
Workplaces Need More Laughter
Interestingly, the study also revealed where Brits feel the need for a bit more humour in their lives. The top three locations where people said they could use a good laugh included the office (22%), work meetings (15%), and during their commute (12%). These findings reflect the pressures and stresses of modern working life, particularly in the post-pandemic world where many are still adjusting to hybrid or in-person working conditions. It seems that for many, a shared joke could be the perfect antidote to a challenging day at work.
A Babybel spokesperson commented on the findings: “It’s fascinating to see how much of a difference sharing a giggle can make to our overall happiness and well-being. What’s even more encouraging is the ripple effect—like an infectious laugh, small acts of kindness or sharing a moment of joy can have a positive impact on others around you. This is why we’re encouraging people to share a giggle, especially with our Comic Relief packs, which not only spread joy but also raise money for a good cause.”
The Power of Giving and Laughing
The study’s findings align with existing research on the benefits of charitable giving. Numerous studies have shown that acts of kindness, such as donating to charity, can significantly reduce stress levels and promote a sense of well-being. According to Babybel’s poll, 46% of respondents believe that doing good for others and feeling good themselves are closely linked.
Samir Patel, CEO of Comic Relief, echoed this sentiment. “This Red Nose Day, we’re encouraging people to ‘Do Something Funny for Money,’ and it’s clear from Babybel’s research that having a giggle can be more beneficial than we may realise. Laughing with others, combined with acts of kindness, really can make a difference. The funds raised through Red Nose Day help support a range of causes, including poverty, mental health, and homelessness, both in the UK and around the world. In these challenging times, it’s more important than ever to come together and make a difference, and we’re incredibly grateful for Babybel’s ongoing support.”
The Nation’s Favourite Gigglers
In addition to exploring the benefits of laughter, Babybel’s study also asked the British public to name the celebrity with the most entertaining and infectious laugh. Topping the list was TV presenter Alison Hammond, whose joyful laugh has made her a fan favourite. Bradley Walsh, comedian Jimmy Carr, and Ricky Gervais also made the top five, along with talk show host Graham Norton.
Sam Thompson himself ranked eighth in the top ten list, which also included stars such as Adele, Alesha Dixon, and Scarlett Moffatt. This light-hearted element of the survey highlighted how much Brits value a good laugh, especially from their favourite celebrities.
Encouraging More Giggles
In support of the campaign, Babybel has launched a “Giggle Gallery” on its website, where visitors can watch fun, laughter-inducing content. The goal is to keep the nation smiling while encouraging donations for Comic Relief. With each pack of Babybel sold, consumers are contributing directly to the cause, helping to make a difference in the lives of those in need.
As the nation gears up for Red Nose Day, Babybel’s initiative reminds us of all that laughter truly is the best medicine—and when combined with a charitable act, its positive effects are even greater.
For more information and product enquiries please contact Babybel@popcornpr.co.uk
