Comfort Shows in Times of Stress (or Anytime!)

Have you seen the newest season of Bridgeton? Or are you still binge-watching Grey’s Anatomy? Do you find yourself watching Friends on repeat, even if it’s just on in the background?

Our brains only have so much space for new information or cognitive processing. At some points we just get…tired. And need a break! Comfort shows can help distract us (hello, escapism!), give us ‘feel good’ endorphins, and decrease stress. While watching things that are new and exciting are, well, new and exciting- there is a comfort to watching/re-watching things where we know the outcome.

Research has shown that watching familiar shows/movies can actually give us more of a sense of control and self-control. The familiarity is grounding because it’s routine and safe…you know exactly what to expect! These shows provide distraction, but also helps to regulate our emotions and fosters connection with the characters and storylines. The nostalgia that these shows bring us can also help to connect us to others (aka all ‘Ew David’ memes sent between friends!).

The crux of it- don’t hesitate or feel badly about rewatching your favorite shows! They are helping to decrease stress and regulate your emotions! Don’t let Netflix pressure you into changing to a new show! :) 

Here are a few comfort shows from our providers:

Mary Lyttles: The Office, Friends, Big Bang Theory, Gilmore Girls
Melanie Zamborsky: High Potential, The Rookie, Doc, Home Town
Jessica Enright: The Middle, Modern Family, Superstore
Niki Wood: Friends, Gilmore Girls, Disney World content on YouTube
Karen Becker: Grace and Frankie, Big Bang Theory, Young Sheldon, Friends, Fubar, Discovery of Witches
Jessica Zaucha: Modern Family, Friends, The Office, The Rookie, Natural Geographic documentaries
Kelly Grandt: High Potential, competitive cooking shows, House Hunters International
Jeff Bondora: Jersey Shore