Comedy as a Lifeline: Dave Mowry's Journey
Episode Overview
Dave Mowry uses comedy to navigate bipolar disorder and anxiety. Comedy serves as a therapeutic tool for mental health. Dave has inspired many by teaching comedy to others with mental illnesses. His book, 'OMG, That’s Me,' has sold over 17,000 copies. Humor can transform and heal during dark times.
You can’t be anxious and happy at the same time. Your brain can’t chemically make that happen.
In this enlightening episode of 'Unpause Your Life,' Dr. Cali Estes and Master Coach Jenny Fontana sit down with Dave Mowry, a man whose life has been profoundly transformed by comedy. Living with bipolar disorder and severe anxiety, Dave found himself engulfed in the shadows of mental illness. However, everything changed when he discovered stand-up comedy. What started as a personal endeavor soon evolved into a powerful therapeutic tool that not only changed his life but also inspired countless others.
Dave Mowry shares his journey from hospitalization and homelessness to becoming a beacon of hope through laughter and humor. His book, 'OMG, That’s Me,' a bestseller in the mental health book section, has reached over 17,000 readers, offering a relatable narrative that resonates with many who struggle with similar issues.
Dave emphasizes the cathartic power of comedy, explaining how turning personal experiences into jokes helps not only him but also those he teaches, allowing them to find humor in what once seemed insurmountable. During the conversation, Dr. Cali Estes shares her own experience with stand-up comedy, highlighting how it can be both daunting and liberating.
Dave explains that the act of getting on stage and making people laugh about his life experiences is not only empowering but also a unique way to connect with others, breaking down the stigmas associated with mental illness. Dave’s work extends beyond himself as he teaches stand-up comedy to others who have mental illnesses, helping them to see their challenges through a new, humorous lens.
This teaching has proven to be transformative, offering a new outlook on life and mental health. The episode also delves into the creation of Dave’s book, which compiles blog posts that have touched over a million readers, many of whom found solace in the shared experiences. Ultimately, Dave Mowry’s story is a testament to the healing power of humor. It encourages us to find laughter in our darkest times, transforming anxiety and stress into sources of joy and connection.
His journey is a reminder that while mental health challenges can be daunting, they can also be approached with resilience and creativity, leading to profound personal growth and healing.