Do you find yourself drawn to the same TV shows, the same films, the same comforting content when you’re feeling stressed or stretched thin? You’re not being unoriginal — you’re instinctively self‑soothing. Returning to something familiar gives your nervous system a low‑demand, predictable space to settle. It’s a small act of care that many people use without even realising it.
Recent research supports this. A 2024 study by the streaming service NOW found that Friends is the UK’s most‑watched “background show”, with viewers choosing it specifically for its familiarity and emotional comfort. The researchers noted that people often rewatch shows they already know because it reduces cognitive load and creates a sense of calm (NOW, 2024). When your brain doesn’t have to anticipate plot twists or concentrate on new information, it can finally relax.
Psychologists describe this as a form of emotional regulation. Familiar narratives offer predictability, and predictability lowers anxiety. You already know the characters, the rhythm, the jokes, the ending. There’s no pressure to keep up. No surprises. Just a steady, companionable hum in the background while you get on with your day. Even the title suggests an easy watch – who doesn’t want to be with their friends?!
Comfort viewing in moments of loss
With the recent passing of Catherine O’Hara, many people may find themselves returning to Schitt’s Creek — not only to honour her iconic portrayal of Moira Rose, but to comfort themselves through the familiarity of the show. Grief often draws us back to what feels safe and known. Rewatching becomes a quiet ritual: a way to remember, a way to feel connected, a way to soften the edges of sadness without overwhelming ourselves.
In this sense, comfort viewing sits at the intersection of self‑soothing and grief. It offers:
• Emotional steadiness when life feels unpredictable
• A sense of companionship without the demands of real‑time interaction
• A gentle bridge between remembering someone and caring for yourself
A small, valid act of care
Whether it’s Friends, Schitt’s Creek, or another beloved favourite, returning to familiar stories is a legitimate way to self‑soothe. It’s not escapism; it’s grounding. A way to relax. A way to feel held by something steady when the world feels anything but.
