Indianapolis — Gwen Sunckle, a nurse and comedian, believes that comedy can help both herself and her patients deal with difficult situations. As the Executive Producer of the Middle Ground Comedy Festival, she uses humor to break the ice and start challenging conversations with those going through tough times. Sunckle and other comedians in Indianapolis came together to create the event, aiming to help those struggling with mental health find relief through laughter.
The National Library of Medicine states that laughter can reduce stress and boost mood by affecting hormone levels in the body. Sunckle emphasizes the importance of finding reasons to laugh in a world filled with sadness. Local comedian Lucas Waterfill, who lives with cerebral palsy and addiction, uses comedy to cope with his struggles. By sharing relatable stories, Sunckle hopes to show attendees that they are not alone and that laughter can be a powerful tool for improving mental well-being.
Middle Ground is working towards becoming a non-profit organization in the future to further support individuals with mental health issues. The festival, taking place from April 25 to April 28, will feature 40 comedians from Indiana and other parts of the country. Tickets are priced affordably to ensure that everyone can enjoy a good laugh without financial barriers. To learn more about the event and purchase tickets, visit their website.