SMH Comedy Society
The SMH Comedy Society is a Canadian registered charity (Business No.: 856487913RR0001) that uses stand-up comedy as a therapeutic tool for individuals with mental health conditions. Founded in 2004 and incorporated as a non-profit society in July 2010, the organization teaches participants to create and perform original comedy material centered on their mental health experiences, aiming to reduce shame, build confidence, and combat stigma[1][3][4].

History and structure

The society began offering classes in Vancouver, British Columbia, in 2004 under founder David Granirer. It expanded its programming to include a year-long initial training course followed by an alumni program for performers wishing to continue[3][4]. By 2010, it received a $50,000 sponsorship from Canada Post for its "highly-successful laughter-therapy program"[1].

Programs and outreach

Participants in the 6-month program attend 20 classes, culminating in public performances at conferences, universities, correctional facilities, and military bases across North America[1][3]. The society avoids humor targeting specific individuals or sexual abuse topics, focusing instead on personal storytelling to foster resilience[1][3]. It also delivers workplace anti-stigma workshops and presentations, integrating comedy to promote mental health awareness in professional settings[1][3].

Recognition

A CBC Television documentary, Cracking Up, highlighting the program, won a 2008 VOICE Award from the U.S. government[1]. The society’s initiatives have been incorporated into the medical school curricula of two unnamed universities, emphasizing its role in educating future healthcare professionals about mental health advocacy[3].

Future initiatives

The organization has explored partnerships with correctional institutions, including a proposed pre-release program at William Head Institution to aid offender rehabilitation through comedy-based skill-building[1].

[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stand_Up_For_Mental_Health [2] https://smhsociety.org [3] https://smhsociety.org/about/ [4] https://my.charitableimpact.com/charities/smh-comedy-society [5] https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/smh-comedy-society/