It's essential to recognize that people have different coping mechanisms and ways of processing emotions. Laughing at sad or depressing things doesn't necessarily mean your friend is being insensitive or trying to hurt others intentionally. There could be various reasons why your friend reacts this way:
Coping mechanism: Some people use humor as a coping mechanism to deal with difficult emotions or situations. Laughing at sad things might be their way of trying to lighten the mood or lessen the emotional impact of what they're experiencing or witnessing.
Discomfort with intense emotions: Laughing at sad things could be a way for your friend to avoid confronting their own deep emotions or feeling overwhelmed by the emotions of others. It might be their way of creating emotional distance from the situation.
Social pressure: In some social situations, laughter can be contagious, and people may laugh even when they don't find something funny. Your friend might feel pressured to join in with the laughter, even if they genuinely feel sad or uncomfortable.
Nervous laughter: Sometimes, people laugh when they feel anxious or uncertain. It's possible that your friend's laughter is a reaction to feeling awkward or unsure about how to respond to sad or depressing situations.
Misinterpretation: It's also possible that your friend's laughter is misinterpreted, and they might not actually find the situation funny but are expressing discomfort in a socially awkward way.
If you feel comfortable doing so, you might want to have an open and honest conversation with your friend about their reactions. Let them know how their laughter makes you feel and try to understand their perspective as well. Approach the conversation with empathy and without judgment to foster a deeper understanding of each other's feelings and reactions.
Remember that everyone processes emotions differently, and it's essential to respect each person's unique coping mechanisms while also being sensitive to the feelings of others. If your friend's behavior continues to bother you or seems to be a sign of a larger issue, encourage them to speak with a mental health professional who can provide further guidance and support.