Binge-Watching to Feel Better: Mental Health Gratifications Sought and Obtained Through Binge-Watching

Depression and anxiety have recently increased among young adults. So, too, have the media behaviors of binge-watching and problematic viewing. Media may be an effective tool for coping with stress and mental health challenges. The present study examines mental health management gratifications sought and obtained via media using a uses and gratifications theory approach. An online survey of undergraduates in the United States (n = 247) found that young adults report binge-watching and using media to feel better when experiencing depression and anxiety, especially if they tend toward problematic media use. For anxiety, this appears to be a successful strategy, in that participants report reduced anxiety after binge-watching. For depression, however, the results are mixed. More research is needed in this area, but this study solidifies the potential importance of coping with mental health using binge-watching of media.