New academic research published

Taking part in a stand-up course improves the mental wellbeing and resilience of LGBTQ+ people, new research suggests. 

The study – conducted by Birmingham City University and published in the journal Behavioral Sciences – found that writing and performing jokes helped participants process difficult experiences, reframe adversity and connect with others who had been through similar things.

Researchers interviewed people who had completed the ten-week LGBTQTeeHee!, comedy course held at Birmingham Rep, and said they identified greater confidence, a sense of community, resilience and personal growth among those who took part.

However, the study was limited, with just six people questioned.

Dr Anthony Gifford, lecturer in psychology at BCU and the study’s lead author, said comedy gave participants far more than performance skills.

He said: ‘This project offered a space to explore identity, connect with others who shared similar experiences and transform difficult experiences into stories of resilience.

‘While laughter was central to the programme, the real impact lay in the confidence, belonging and empowerment that participants described.’

One participant described the sense of safety they found within the group: ‘I’ve spent most of my life feeling like I’m broken. But when I’m with these guys, I don’t feel broken. I feel normal. I feel that’s invaluable.’

The research forms part of a wider look at whether art can help address the higher rates of mental health problems reported within the LGBTQ+ community. ‘These disparities are not solely due to one’s LGBTQ+ identity, but rather stem from the hostile social environments… that many in the LGBTQ+ community endure,’ the paper said.

And it concluded: ‘Participants were able to harness humour, a common coping mechanism within marginalised communities, and develop it into an expressive and empowering performance practice. 

‘In doing so, the intervention not only facilitated individual wellbeing, but also fostered collective connection and resilience, highlighting the unique potential of community-based comedy as a tool for supporting LGBTQ+ mental health.’

Rob Beck, senior drama practitioner at Birmingham Rep and co-author of the study,  said the LGBTQTeeHee!  programme ‘helps people find community, light in the dark and reminds us that together we are stronger’.  

LGBTQTeeHee! returns in September.

Pictured above are comedy consultant Angie Belcher, Rob Beck from Birmingham Rep and BCU’s Fiona Brook and Dr Anthony Gifford

Published: 17 Aug 2026