CALM offers some light relief on Twitter with #CALMComedyClub

With the current period of uncertainty we’re experiencing placing an increased stress on people’s mental health, CALM demonstrates both the power of social media in connecting us but also how a little comedy can go a long way.

Izzy Ashton

Deputy Editor, BITE Creativebrief

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Comedy has always been a salve in a crisis. Even in the midst of the greatest devastation, a quick wit and a funny remark can do wonders for lifting the spirit. This is particularly impactful when that moment is shared with others, something social media is facilitating during a time in which digital connectivity can helpcan’t be physically alongside one another.

Research from Twitter Insiders in the UK has revealed that one in three Twitter users are worried about their mental health during these unique times, while 37% of Twitter users are currently spending more time on social media, looking for connections, news and entertainment. When it comes to supporting their mental health, 89% of Twitter users said a distraction to take their mind off things is an important need at this time.

A little bit of social distracting friendly light relief is what CALM, the Campaign Against Living Miserably, is aiming to bring with their new Twitter series #CALMComedyClub. It is giving people a chance to take a literal break from their day to day after the organisation saw a 37% increase in call demand the week after lockdown was announced.

The gigs will be livestreamed on CALM’s Twitter profile @theCALMzone at 3pm from Monday 27th April until Friday 1st May. Comedians involved include Russell Kane, Seann Walsh, Paul Chowdry, Dane Baptiste and Nigel Ng.

Russell Kane said of the gigs, “We can no longer physically attend a comedy gig, and rightfully so, but we want to help raise spirits and bring some smiles to people’s kitchens or living rooms through #CALMComedyClub. CALM does so much great work through its helpline and webchat service, so it is great to be able to use the power of social media to support this.”

People need support now more than ever, from those around them but also from life-saving organisations like CALM, the leading movement against suicide in the UK. With the current period of uncertainty we’re experiencing placing an increased stress on people’s mental health, CALM demonstrates both the power of social media in connecting us but also how a little comedy can go a long way.