If you were to look through the ‘continue watching’ section on my Netflix and Stan accounts, you’d assume they was shared between multiple people. There’s everything from stand-up comedy specials to girly dramas like Gossip Girl and even docos about Hitler’s bodyguards (I wish I could say I was joking.)
The reason behind my rather eclectic viewing catalogue isn’t just that I have a wide range of interests. It’s also that I have to be in a particular mood to watch certain things. If I’ve had a bad day, I usually just want to switch my brain off and watching something mindless. Other times, I’m in the mood for something a little more thought-provoking and mentally stimulating.
Luckily for me (and everybody else), there’s literally thousands of shows to choose from to suit every vibe. But unfortunately, the streaming websites are yet to introduce an option that allows you to filter by mood. So, until that happens, we’ve compiled some suggestions to suit your emotional needs. Whether you’re feeling sick, sad or in need of motivation, we’ve got you covered!
When you’re…in need of career motivation
What to watch: Girlboss on Netflix
If you’re ever feeling a bit ‘meh’ about your career (or you just don’t know what to do next), fire up your laptop and stream this Netflix original series. The comedy tells the true story of Sophia Amoruso, the unlikely businesswoman who turned her eBay vintage clothing store into the multi-million dollar brand, Nasty Gal. It’s the ultimate tale of a plucky underdog’s rise to success and it’s impossible not to feel inspired watching it!
When you’re… feeling nostalgic
What to watch: The OC on Stan
I will never get sick of binge-watching The OC. It’s got everything — drama, intrigue, cute guys, comedy, early 2000’s fashion choices. Plus, it reminds me of a simpler time when Supre singlet tops that said ‘Love The OC’ were an acceptable addition to any outfit. If you’re in need of a nostalgia endorphin boost, you can’t go past this iconic drama series.
When you’re… In need of mental stimulation
What to watch: 13 Reasons Why on Netflix
Unless you’ve been hiding under a rock, you’ve probably heard of 13 Reasons Why. While it looks a bit ‘high school drama’ at first glance, it’s actually a great drama-mystery series that will get your brain working hard to unravel the many twists. It tells the tragic story of Hannah, a high school student who takes her own life and leaves behind a box of videotapes explaining why she did it.
When you’re… heartbroken
What to watch: Imposters on Stan
If you’re on the mend from a break-up, first of all — sorry, it sucks. While it can be tempting to put on the saddest thing you can find and sob in front of the TV, this can often make you feel worse. Instead, it can be a good idea to pop on a show that will not only make you laugh, but also remind you that breakups come with a silver lining. This dark comedy series fits the bill perfectly, as it’s about three very different people who are seduced, then scammed, by the same woman. They team up to track her down and in the process, end up becoming good friends.
When you’re… in need of a good cry
What to watch: Me Before You on Netflix
Whether it’s that time of the month or you’re just generally feeling down, sometimes you need a good ol’ cry to get all those pent-up emotions out. However, a movie is sometimes better for this, as it limits your crying time to a few hours (rather than binge-watching a sad series.) Unless you happen to be a robot, we guarantee this romantic drama will turn on the waterworks. It’s about the unlikely bond between a cynical, recently paralysed man and his cheerful, quirky caregiver.
When you’re…sick
What to watch: Brooklyn Nine-Nine on Netflix
When you’re at home sick, you need a comedy series that doesn’t require much thinking but will cheer you up. Brooklyn Nine-Nine is a perfect choice, as it’s hilarious but often in a simple, slapstick kind of way (without being too ridiculous.) Set in NYC’s 99th precinct, it focuses on the antics of a ragtag group of police officers. Oh, and there’s four seasons — so you won’t have to move off the lounge any time soon!
When you’re… in need of a pick-me-up
What to watch: Ru Paul’s Drag Race on Stan
I recently watched the musical Kinky Boots and if it taught me anything it’s this: nobody can inspire you to get out of a rut quite like a sassy, take-no-bullsh*t drag queen. That’s why Ru Paul’s Drag Race is the perfect thing to watch when you’re in need of a bit of a pick-me-up. With 9 seasons, it’s basically like America’s Next Top Model — except there’s way more drama and catfights as the contestants fight for the coveted title of America’s Next Drag Superstar. Warning: It’s seriously addictive.
