A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial of Distance Laughter Therapy for Mothers' Level of Depression, Anxiety, and Parental Stress during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Presented here are both quantitative and qualitative datasets from a study titled 'A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial of Distance Laughter Therapy for Mothers’ Level of Depression, Anxiety, and Parental Stress during the COVID-19 Pandemic.' The COVID-19 pandemic has necessitated significant lifestyle modifications globally, leading to heightened psychological stressors, notably depression and anxiety. Concurrently, the exigencies of parental care have escalated, thereby amplifying the risk of caregiver exhaustion and potential child maltreatment. This study sought to assess the efficacy and feasibility of utilizing distance laughter therapy for mothers who are looking after young children during these challenging times. The primary objective was to alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety, and parental stress.