There is nothing quite like coming home and having hours of free (or not so free) time to just waste in front of Netflix. Binge-watching a show can be the perfect way to kick back and relax. You might even make an event out of it with your friends. But, like with all things, excess Netflix watching can be dangerous. You might find yourself socially withdrawing. You might find yourself relying on Netflix and deeming it your "happy time".
An easy way to find out if you have an unhealthy relationship with Netflix is if you relate to these 5 steps of binge-watching.
1. You've found a show.
It becomes your life. You reference this show at all times. You begin to catch yourself getting irrationally angry at people for not understanding your references to it. You consider unfriending people virtually and in real life if they haven't heard of your show. Your appalled at the idea of not watching at least one or two episodes each day. Nothing else seems to entertain you, but this show.
2. You start making excuses not to leave your house so that you can stay in and binge-watch.
These excuses usually relate to some computer activity. "I need to write an essay." "I need to update my LinkedIn." "I'm working on my resume." You think you're being sly, but everyone can see right through you.
You begin to have unrealistic expectations from the characters. Every failure or success, feels like your failure or success. You're emotionally committed to each and every one of them. You seem to have grown an empathic view of the character you once hated and you've started to get irritated by the one you initially loved. When they do something morally questionable, you're personally offended.4. You're nearing towards the later half of the show.
The seasons seem to be getting lower in quality, the plot lines aren't all that great. But for some reason you just can't let go. Your loyalty is too strong. You sit through horrible episodes with a smile on your face.
5. Your show is done and so is your life.
Well, that's what it feels like. What do you do now? You have to commit your time and emotions into a whole new show all over again! How many times can you do this? It's just all too much. You go through a mourning period for the show. You wear black as you take to the interweb to find out if there's going to be a reunion season or a potential runoff show.
If this is you I know what you're thinking...
...and season one Serena would so support you! But season six Serena would tell you to try harder because it's not quite so easy catching your own Dan Humphrey locked up in your room behind a computer screen!Don't fret. Netflixaholicism is definitely a problem, but all you need to do is reach out for help. With the support of your friends you can put your Netflixaholic past behind you in no time!