Many comedians who suffer from depression talk openly about it and even joke about it. Humor might be a defense mechanism or a way of coping with their condition. Even Freud himself theorized that comedians tell jokes to relieve themselves of an inner anxiety.

There is a popular podcast ironically named The Hilarious World of Depression that features moving, insightful, and of course funny interviews with comedians who suffer from depression. Andy Richter, the actor best known as Conan O’Brien’s comedic sidekick, appeared on the show to talk about his experiences living with depression. The podcast’s mission is to foster dialogue about mental health issues and therefore fight the stigma surrounding mental illness.

By sharing their experiences, comedians can let others with depression know that they are not alone.