We’ve all been there. As we binge on our favorite TV show, mindlessly clicking to the next episode, Netflix asks us one simple question. “Are you still watching?” For some this may be the wakeup call to finally get out of bed and open the blinds to see the sunlight we’ve been avoiding all weekend. But to others, including myself, I see this as an insult. Of course I’m still watching. It’s an addiction.

Now, depending on how deep you are in determines how long it’ll take you to escape. Two episodes seem
like a treat, after a long day of classes. Four episodes in, you’re wrapped in a blanket burrito and your eyes are glued. Past that, you’re most likely shouting at the screen to your favorite character to watch out or aggressively clicking to the next season. But what happens when you reach the finale of a season and it won’t be there for another year or so? (I feel for you Sherlock fans.) Or what if the show is over completely?

Your favorite TV show ending can cause many different emotions. Some may feel as if their friend has died. It is scary, when fantasy meets reality. I’m not saying this is a bad thing. In fact, I believe that a show is great when you can relate to a character and learn from them. Others may feel angry and watch shitty spinoffs hoping they’ll be as good as the original ("The Joey Show").

Surprisingly, you’re not alone. “British psychologist Edward B. Titchener (1867–1927) argued that we become glued to complex, emotionally charged stories because of our ability to recognize the feelings of others. A newly identified phenomenon at the time, Titchener coined the term empathy in 1909.” It is because of our ability to empathize with characters as we binge that we begin to share emotions and struggles with them as well.

According to a TiVo study, “nine out of 10 binge-watch television.” Now I believe that either 1
percent is lying, or just doesn’t know the definition of binge-watching since everyone I know is guilty of this from time to time. I am especially guilty of this. During finals week, I managed to watch three TV shows from start to finish. Somehow I did well, and I thank my time-management skills for that. Aside from my “achievement,” I can’t help but worry.

Once in a while I think of how much potential we all have. Instead of binge-watching, I could study more, try to learn something new, follow my passions, or save some money like a logical person. But these thoughts usually end with a shrug of my shoulders and my index finger lazily hitting the play button.

If you’re like me, chances are you just finished your latest show on Netflix and you’re looking for something new. Scrolling for hours and mumbling, “No...watched that already...why is this under my recommendation list? I don’t remember watching that.” It’s a toxic process. So to help you out a little here are some of my personal favorites.

1. "Z Nation."

This action-packed show has everything you could possibly imagine happening in the zombie apocalypse. And if you’re tired of Rick telling Carl to, “Get back in the house!,” then this is the show for you. In one episode you can watch all of the action that would happen in a season of "Walking Dead." I’ll admit the show drags in a couple of episodes, but doesn’t disappoint with lovable characters and all the zombies you can imagine.

2. "American Horror Story."

If you can get past the terrifying intro, this show does not disappoint. The one thing that is great about this show is how each season is a different storyline. However, I wouldn’t recommend skipping seasons since there are some connections to past seasons. Also, who would want to skip over the excellent performances of Sarah Paulson and Evan Peters? ("Murder House" and "Freak Show" are my favorites.)

3. "Supernatural."

Do I have to tell you about this show? It’s fantastic and has something for everyone. The show is in the middle of it’s 11th season, but don't shy away, it’s worth the binge dedication. I will admit there were a couple of seasons where they lost me, but the Winchesters had me come back with episodes like "The French Mistake" and "Swan Song."

Have fun!