The National Health Service is testing whether laughter can improve patient well-being by training people at a Westminster day centre to become stand-up comedians. This initiative, reported in the Financial Times, seeks to demonstrate that comedy therapy could offer a cost-effective mental health treatment alternative. The trial involves Westminster residents with mild to moderate depression or anxiety, who are learning joke-writing and performance skills over several weeks.

Early results suggest participants report reduced stress levels and improved mood, though long-term efficacy remains under evaluation. If successful, this model could expand nationwide, potentially reducing reliance on traditional therapy and medication. The NHS is exploring partnerships with comedy schools and community groups to scale the program, which could create new revenue streams for the arts sector while cutting healthcare costs. Westminster centre's success may influence national mental health policy and funding priorities.