There’s nothing funny about dealing with depression, but new research suggests that laughing gas could provide short-term relief for those struggling with the illness.

About 21 million Americans adults have had at least one major depressive episode. And for those diagnosed with treatment-resistant depression, there are often debilitating symptoms — with little to no options for relief.

A new study offers hope by revealing how nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, might provide fast relief for those struggling with one of the most difficult forms of depression.

The study showed that a single session of clinical nitrous oxide at 50% concentration resulted in notable reductions in symptoms of depression within 24 hours. While the positive results generally faded after one week, repeated treatments provided longer term benefits, suggesting a course of multiple treatments could provide sustainable relief.

Study authors believe the nitrous oxide acts on glutamate receptors in a way that is similar to ketamine, another drug that has been shown to provide relief from depressive symptoms.

As a potential groundbreaking development, the team is interested in conducting more studies on the effects of nitrous oxide, possibly leading to a new generation of fast-acting treatments for some of the most difficult-to-treat types of depression.

They noted this further research is essential to understanding the long-term safety of nitrous oxide and how clinicians can best incorporate the treatment into existing regimens.

In a roundabout way, it seems like laughter really could be the best medicine.