The Benefits of Watching Movies and TV Shows For Mental Health

In our fast-paced world, finding ways to relax and unwind is crucial. While many people turn to exercise or meditation to improve their mental health, watching movies and TV shows can also positively impact our well-being. Here are a few ways that watching movies and TV shows can benefit your mental health.

Photo by Madison Inouye

Movies and TV Shows as a Form of Escapism

One of the most apparent benefits of watching movies and TV shows is their ability to transport us to a different world. When engrossed in a story, we can forget our worries and problems for a while. This form of escapism can be a great way to recharge our mental batteries and reduce stress levels. Watching a movie or TV show can give us a sense of control over our environment. We get to choose what we watch and when we watch it, which can help us feel empowered and less overwhelmed by the demands of daily life.

The Therapeutic Benefits of Laughing During a Comedy

Laughter is often referred to as the best medicine, and for a good reason. It releases endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals, and can improve our mood and reduce stress levels. Laughter can also have physical benefits, such as reducing pain and strengthening our immune system. When we watch a comedy, we’re more likely to laugh, which can positively impact our mental health. So the next time you feel down, consider putting on a comedy and letting yourself laugh out loud.

Watching Movies and Shows is a Bonding Experience

Watching a movie or TV show with friends or family can be a great way to bond and strengthen relationships. When we watch something together, we have a shared experience that we can discuss and enjoy together. Watching a movie or TV show together can also be a way to escape from technology and spend quality time together. Instead of scrolling through social media or playing video games, we can connect and enjoy a shared activity. If you are a religious family, watching movies about Jesus is the perfect time for a family bonding experience.

The Benefits of Watching Positive Content for Mental Health

Not all movies and TV shows are created equal. While some may leave you feeling drained or even worse than before you started watching, others can positively impact your mental health. 

• Boosts Your Mood: Watching a positive movie or show can lift your mood and make you feel happier. This is because positive content can activate the reward centers in our brain, which releases dopamine – a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and happiness. When we watch something that makes us feel good, our brain rewards us with a rush of dopamine, which immediately boosts our mood.
• Reduces Stress and Anxiety Watching positive content can also help reduce stress and anxiety. When stressed, our body releases cortisol – a hormone that can harm our mental and physical health. However, watching something that makes us happy or relaxed can help reduce cortisol levels, making us feel less stressed and anxious.
• Providing a Sense of Comfort and Support Positive content can also provide comfort and support. Watching a movie or show that resonates with us or features characters, we can relate to can make us feel less alone. This is especially important for individuals struggling with mental health issues such as depression or anxiety. It can be a source of comfort and a reminder that they are not alone in their struggles.
• Encouraging Self-Care Watching positive content can also encourage self-care. Positive content can inspire us to prioritize our well-being and make positive life changes. Watching something that makes us feel good can motivate us to take better care of ourselves, whether through exercise, meditation, or other self-care practices.
• Promoting Positive Thinking Positive content can also promote positive thinking. Watching a movie or show with a positive message can inspire us to adopt a more positive outlook on life. This can be especially helpful for individuals who struggle with negative self-talk or pessimistic thinking patterns.
• Provides Inspiration and Motivation Watching positive content can also provide inspiration and motivation. Positive content can motivate us to act toward our goals and dreams. Watching a movie or show featuring characters overcoming challenges or achieving their goals can inspire us to do the same.
• Creating a Sense of Community Watching positive content can also create a sense of community. When we watch a movie or show that we enjoy, we may feel connected to others who share the same interests. This can lead to social bonding and a sense of belonging, essential for our mental health and well-being.

Here are some tips to help you create a healthy balance with screen time:

• Set Limits: One of the best ways to create a healthy balance with screen time is to set limits on how much time you spend watching movies and TV shows. You can select a daily or weekly limit and stick to it. You can also use screen time monitoring apps to help you keep track of your screen time.
• Take Breaks: It’s essential to take frequent breaks while watching movies and TV shows. You can use the 20-20-20 rule, which means taking a 20-second break every 20 minutes to look at something 20 feet away. This can help prevent eye strain and fatigue.
• Choose Positive Content: As discussed earlier, watching positive content can positively impact mental health. Therefore, choosing a positive range that makes you feel good rather than violent, negative, or depressing content is essential.
• Watch with Others: Watching movies, and TV shows can make it a more social experience and help you connect. You can also discuss the content with others and share your thoughts and feelings.
• Engage in Other Activities: Other activities besides watching movies and TV shows are essential. You can exercise, read a book, meditate, or spend time outdoors. This can help you maintain a healthy balance between screen time and other activities.
• Create a Nighttime Routine: Excessive screen time before bed can disrupt sleep patterns, so it’s essential to create a nighttime routine that doesn’t involve screen time. You can read a book, listen to calming music, or practice relaxation techniques before bed.
• Be Mindful: It’s essential to be mindful of your screen time and how it’s impacting your mental health. If you notice negative changes in your mood, sleep patterns, or overall well-being, it may be time to reassess your screen time habits and adjust.

In conclusion, movies and TV shows can provide many benefits for mental health, including escapism, emotional catharsis, empathy, and bonding experiences. However, it’s essential to create a healthy balance with screen time to avoid the negative effects of excessive screen time. By setting limits, taking breaks, choosing positive content, watching with others, engaging in other activities, creating a nighttime routine, and being mindful, you can maintain a healthy balance with screen time and enjoy the many benefits that movies and TV shows offer for mental health.