Ah, TV. TV has been through the wringer when it comes to mental health. Everyone has referred to it as an “idiot box” at some point in their lives, and TV shows are infamous for being mentally unstimulating depending on what you’re watching. Being a couch potato is associated with laziness and obesity.
Poor TV, always getting a bad rap. Indeed, there are some health concerns with watching too much TV, but watching some on occasion can be good for you as well. Whether you’re catching up on Game of Thrones or taking a trip down memory lane with Saved by the Bell, here are some reasons TV shows aren’t that bad.
It’s a Good Way to Bond
Watching TV with your friends, children (visit here for cool TV show ideas,) or a potential date can be a good way to bond. You can grow to like a TV show and talk about it, or it can be a way for romantic couples to ignite some kind of romance. Obviously, you should do more to bond than watch TV all the time, but occasional TV night isn’t a bad thing.
Shows Have Good Stories Nowadays
It used to be that TV shows had stories that were a bit mentally unstimulating. Cartoons with silly plots, trite soap operas, sitcoms that had the same five plots, the list went on. If you wanted a good story or characters, you may have been better off with a movie. But nowadays, more shows have stories that are quite good to follow, and everyone is always speculating what will happen next. Even a kids’ show can have a good story in today’s TV climate. A good story can inspire you, make you speculate, and make you want to check out more. Just don’t binge it too much.
It Can Help You Unwind
TV can be relaxing for many people. After a hard day at work or school, watching some TV can relax you and get your focus off the stresses of everyday life. Again, this is something that you should unwind within moderation. Too much TV can keep you up at night. However, the occasional show, especially a nature documentary, can make you relaxed.
Even a Mindless Show Can Be Stimulating
TV shows have a poor reputation because of how many mindless shows there are. Reality shows that are anything but real, sitcoms that rely on dirty jokes for humor and the list goes on. However, there is no shame in having a guilty pleasure here and there. A mindless show can still be entertaining and junk food for the brain, but when used sparingly, it can be a treat and a good way to laugh at the world around you.
Moderation is the Key
TV, video games, and other media should be taken in moderation. There is nothing wrong with watching the occasional show, but many people make it a big habit and end up spending their lives on TV. This is not a good idea. Instead, do it in moderation, and have other ways to unwind as well.
Seek Help!
If you have a TV addiction, or just need someone to talk to about your mental health, a counselor or a therapist can help you. You should look at psychotherapy to help you with anything you need. Depression, anxiety, and other issues can make you addicted to TV, but a counselor may be able to help you do it in moderation and help you with any other issues you may have. Speak to a counselor today.
