What is Comedy-on-Prescription (CoP)?
Craic Health is the Comedy-on-Prescription hub: Known side effects, laughter.
Comedy-on-Prescription (CoP)
Comedy-on-Prescription is a pioneering wellbeing approach that uses comedy as a structured tool to support mental health, confidence and social connection.
The term refers to a growing family of programmes that bridge the comedy industry with health, social care and community sectors. These sessions may include stand-up workshops, storytelling, live gigs, immersive laughter-based experiences, and more—delivered by highly skilled facilitators including professional comedians and creative practitioners.
While laughter already has proven psychological and physiological benefits, Comedy-on-Prescription is on the road to formal integration within NHS policy — Louisa Jackson, Craic’s founder, is working with Dr Simon Opher MP, further supported by several UK MPs and peers, the Mayor of London’s office and Westminster Council. Early Craic Health pilot trials have shown encouraging results, with participants reporting a 44% improvement in mood after CoP events, as well as an increase in confidence and a renewed sense of connection.
At its core, Comedy-on-Prescription is about more than just a good laugh. It’s about building systems that make life more enjoyable for those who need it most—especially people facing isolation, housing insecurity, financial hardship or mental health challenges.
Did you know laughter has proven mental health benefits?
Chemically
It reduces stress hormones like cortisol and boosts feel-good chemicals like dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins.
Socially
It is an ancient way humans and even primates communicate, fostering connection and belonging.
Prescription with known side effects: laughter
In this AI-era, technology continually transforms how we connect with each other, but it has also left many of us feeling more disconnected, isolated and alone.
Mental health issues like chronic loneliness, isolation, and stress are more common than ever.
“It is projected that by 2030 mental health problems (particularly depression) will be the leading cause of mortality and morbidity globally.” — WHO Global burden of mental disorders (2011).
“Mental ill health costs society £300 billion every year… The overall costs of mental ill health equate to double the NHS’s entire budget in England in 2022 (£153bn). They are similar to the estimated impact of COVID-19 on the UK economy in 2020 (£260bn in 2020 prices) – comparable, economically, to having a pandemic every year.” — Centre for Mental Health, commissioned by the NHS Confederation’s Mental Health Network (2024)
In this challenging world, comedy stands out as a universal language that breaks barriers. Research shows that comedy and laughter have powerful effects—bringing people together, creating positive connections, and making life more enjoyable.
The definition of Craic means ‘enjoyable time spent with others’.
At Craic, our mission is to lead a cultural shift by making comedy accessible to everyone. We aim to unite people through the shared joy of laughter.
We believe comedy is an untapped opportunity to improve health and wellbeing. Our goal is to make comedy easier to access and help communities experience its mental health and social benefits.
Modern technology might disconnect us from one another, but we believe Craic’s purpose-built comedy technology can reconnect us. Visit our CoP Hub to find specialty and affordable events, as well as the professionals and businesses facilitating them.
“A large body of evidence shows that taking part in creative and expressive activities, including through social prescribing, can lead to a wide range of benefits including increased social interaction, decreased stress, adoption of healthy behaviours, and improved outcomes such as skills and employment.”
- The National Academy for Social Prescribing (NASP) evidence review publication, Commissioned by NHS England.
Commissioned by NHS England, the National Academy for Social Prescribing (NASP) has published 13 evidence publications.
The evidence review found that ‘social prescribing schemes can deliver between £2.14 and £8.56 for every £1 invested, by reducing pressure on the NHS. This includes reductions in:
GP appointments,
hospital admissions; and
A&E visits for people who have been referred to social prescribing’.
What is social prescribing / prescription?
Social prescribing, also known as social prescription, is an innovative approach to healthcare that goes beyond traditional medicine. It connects people to non-medical activities and community support to improve their overall wellbeing.
Rather than focusing solely on physical symptoms, social prescribing addresses the social, emotional, and practical challenges that impact health – such as loneliness, stress, or managing long-term conditions.
How does social prescription work?
A healthcare professional or social prescribing link worker listens to your challenges and interests. Together, you create a personalised plan that may include:
Creative activities like arts, music and comedy workshops or sessions.
Exercise groups or walking clubs.
Nature-based activities such as gardening or outdoor projects.
Joining community events or support groups.
Learning a new skill or volunteering.
Why is social prescribing important?
Improves mental health
Engaging in meaningful activities can reduce stress, boost confidence, and lift your mood.
Builds connections
It helps people feel less isolated and more connected to their community.
Supports holistic health
Social prescribing focuses on the whole person, not just their symptoms.
Who is social prescribing good for?
Social prescribing is for anyone who canbenefit from non-medical support to improve their health and wellbeing. It is particularly helpful for individuals facing challenges, such as:
Loneliness and isolation: People who feel disconnected from their community or lack social interactions.
Mental health challenges: Those experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem.
Chronic conditions: Individuals managing long-term illnesses where lifestyle and emotional support can make a difference.
Carers: People caring for loved ones who may need time for themselves or access to support networks.
Older adults: Those who might benefit from activities that keep them engaged, active, and connected.
Young people: Helping build confidence, reduce stress, and create positive social connections.
Ethnic and cultural minorities: Offering inclusive opportunities to participate in community life, reducing barriers to engagement.
Anyone looking for meaningful activities: From creative workshops to nature walks, social prescribing provides opportunities for everyone.
Social prescribing ensures inclusivity, making it suitable for people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. The focus is on personalised support, tailored to individual needs and preferences.