The Ironic Link: How Comedy Overcomes Depression explores the intersection between humor and depression by following the psyche of comedians, the ultimate tightrope walkers. They flourish on the fine line between joy and despair, chaos and order, sanity and madness. Those who struggle with mental illnesses often find themselves on that same line. What can we learn from performers on the brink that can be used by anyone, even introverts, to help alleviate some of the burden of psychological trauma? Engaging stories told by famous stand-up comics such as Sarah Silverman, Rainn Wilson, Chris Gethard, and Richard Pryor and others about their battles with depression, dealing with traumatic events, and other mental health issues. Data that proves the critical healing-qualities that laughter has on our mental health, backed up by interviews with renowned psychologists. How those who are troubled have been wrongly stigmatized and what everyone can do to improve that situation. By deconstructing how a comedian's mind works, readers will more easily recognize mental maladies in themselves and others. Let's learn how to laugh through tragedy rather than dying through it!