I Swore I’d Only Watch One Episode… Then Netflix Asked If I Was Still Watching

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“I’ll just watch one episode.” It’s the promise we whisper to ourselves at 9 p.m.—a harmless indulgence, a little escape. But then the credits roll, and the next episode auto-plays. Before you know it, Netflix gently asks, “Are you still watching?” And you realize… you never planned to stop.

This isn’t just about binge-watching. It’s about what we’re running from—and what we’re reaching for.

🧠 The Psychology Behind the Binge

There’s comfort in the predictable arc of a TV show. Conflict, climax, resolution. It mirrors life—but with guaranteed closure. When we’re emotionally drained, overwhelmed, or lonely, binge-watching becomes a soothing balm. It’s not laziness. It’s self-soothing.

But when the binge becomes a habit, it’s worth asking: What am I avoiding?

💔 My Emotional Wake-Up Call

That night, I wasn’t just watching a show—I was numbing. I’d had a difficult conversation earlier. My heart felt heavy. Instead of journaling, speaking to my wife or praying, I reached for the remote. And five episodes later, I felt… nothing. Not joy. Not peace. Just emptiness.

And then it hit me: I wasn’t watching for entertainment. I was watching to escape.

🔍 What Netflix Revealed About My Attachment Style

As someone with anxious tendencies, I crave emotional safety. TV offers that—no rejection, no unpredictability. But it also delays real healing. I realized I often use media to fill relational gaps, to avoid discomfort, to silence the ache of unmet needs.

That “Are you still watching?” prompt felt like a mirror. And I didn’t love the reflection.

🌱 Reclaiming My Evenings with Intention

I didn’t quit Netflix. But I started asking better questions:

What do I need right now—comfort or connection?
Is this show feeding me or numbing me?
Can I pause and check in with myself before pressing play?

Some nights, I still watch. But other nights, I journal. I stretch. I speak to family. I sit with the discomfort instead of drowning it in dialogue and plot twists.

🙏 Conclusion: Netflix – Escape to Awareness

Netflix didn’t ruin my life. How could it? But it did reveal something important. Entertainment is beautiful—but when it becomes a crutch, it’s worth examining. That binge taught me that healing requires presence. And sometimes, the most powerful episode is the one you choose not to watch.

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About me

Steven Lucas MBACP PNCPS (Accred) is a professional counselling psychotherapist working in Northamptonshire. Read Full Bio.

On a Personal Note:

This blog is more than words—it’s my way of creating a life of meaning, purpose, and support for the people I love most: my family.

After years of navigating life’s emotional highs and lows, I realised that what people crave isn’t just information—they want belonging, encouragement, and heart. That’s what I set out to share here.

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Healing isn’t linear, and emotional wellbeing isn’t a destination—it’s a relationship we build with ourselves over time. I’ve shared a piece of my journey here, but I know every path looks different. What’s helped you feel more grounded or whole lately? Whether it’s a small ritual, a big breakthrough, or even a question you’re still sitting with—I’d love to hear it. Your story might be exactly what someone else needs to read today.

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Disclaimer:

I am not a doctor so this guide should not be considered a replacement for seeking medical advice. It is also not a substitute for obtaining therapy as other factors, such as trauma, need to be considered.

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