Top TV shows people turn on when they’re stressed out

By Lucy Brimble, 72Point via SWNS

The TV shows to turn to when feeling stressed include "Friends," "The Great British Bake Off" and "Strictly Come Dancing."

A poll of 2,000 adults found "Killing Eve," "Sex and the City" and "Love Island" were also among the top 20 feel-good programs that help people relax.

"The Simpsons," "Breaking Bad" and "Married at First Sight" also made the list.

More than half (54 percent) will turn to their television when tensions are high, with work, relationships and money worries being the most common reasons for doing so.

And 48 percent instantly feel better when their favorite show is on, with an average of just 18 minutes needed to be shown before people feel calm and composed.

It also emerged 36 percent turn to TV marathons to help when the pressure is full on.

Mirjam Laux, at Roku, which commissioned the survey, said: “With Christmas just around the corner, our research has revealed the perfect TV viewing formula to ward off festive stress.

“From worries about finding the perfect gift, to stresses about cooking Christmas dinner and pleasing your in-laws, it’s easy to forget that the festive season should be a time to unwind, feel good, and catch up on all your favorite shows."

The research also found comedies (42 percent), dramas (24 percent) and documentaries (23 percent) are the most common genres to watch when feeling stressed.

As many as 71 percent think TV shows provide a sense of escapism, as 49 percent said they make them forget about the outside world.

Nearly three in 10 (28 percent) are always on the lookout for a new series, with 39 percent keen to make it last by limiting themselves to one or two episodes at any one time.

Although it appears this isn’t a thing for a whole series, as 43 percent admit to having multiple on the go at once, according to the OnePoll study.

And when it comes to finding a box set to enjoy, it takes 56 percent longer to search for one than it does to watch it.

The sofa is where 65 percent prefer to start a series from but 31 percent would rather opt for their bed, while a fifth enjoy doing it during exercise.

The perfect time to unwind in front of the TV was found to be between 8 P.M. and 9 P.M. (13 percent) with snacks (25 percent) and a blanket (37 percent) absolute must haves.

Mirjam Laux added: “We want to ensure viewers have all the most popular live TV and streaming channels at your fingertips, offering something for everyone - and getting the entire family into the Christmas spirit this year.”

TOP 20 SHOWS TO HELP PEOPLE DESTRESS:

1. "Friends"
2. "The Great British Bake Off"
3. "The Simpsons"
4. "Strictly Come Dancing"
5. "Sex and the City"
6. "Frasier"
7. "Killing Eve"
8. "Breaking Bad"
9. "Married at First Sight"
10. "Love Island"
11. "The Office (UK)"
12. "Better Call Saul"
13. "Will & Grace"
14. "Homeland"
15. "Everybody Loves Raymond"
16. "Motherland"
17. "The Office (US)"
18. "The Sopranos"
19. "The Jeffrey Dahmer Story"
20. "Suits"