13 Best Feel-Good TV Shows For Stressful Days

Stress can creep in quietly—tight deadlines, tension, or constant mental buzz wear down mood and energy. In those moments, a feel-good TV show acts like a balm, offering laughter, comfort, or escape. Here’s a curated list of series that lift spirits, whether you seek comedy, warmth, or nostalgia.

What Makes a TV Show “Feel-Good”?

A feel-good show typically shares a few key traits: positive themes, characters you root for, emotional warmth, humor, or lighthearted escapism. Rather than dwelling long in conflict or tension, these shows resolve most arcs gently or optimistically. They emphasize kindness, connection, and small joys.

Psychologically, comfort TV works because it offers familiarity, predictability, and catharsis. When life is chaotic, watching characters you already know and love lets your brain relax—no effort needed to parse new storylines. Some researchers call it “cognitive load easing”—rewatching familiar shows lets your mind rest.

Additionally, feel-good shows help reduce anxiety and boost mood by releasing positive emotions. According to positive psychology, experiencing light, joyful feelings helps "undo" the physiological strain of Stress. In short: they remind you that small kindnesses and humor still matter—and you don't have to think too hard to enjoy them.

Top Feel-Good TV Shows to Watch When You’re Stressed

Below are feel-good show recommendations grouped by what your mood might need. (Availability may vary by country or streaming service.)

a. For Pure Laughter

These are light, good-natured comedies perfect for instant mood lift.

The Office (US) (2005–2013)

A mockumentary on a quirky paper company and its oddball staff. Why it’s feel-good: The chemistry of the ensemble, Dwight vs. Michael shenanigans, and warm undercurrents of friendship and growth make it endlessly enjoyable.

Streaming: Available on platforms such as Peacock (US) / Netflix or local equivalents depending on region.

Parks and Recreation (2009–2015)

The town of Pawnee’s local parks department and its ever-optimistic employees. Why it’s feel-good: Its optimism, goofy but heartfelt characters, and the tone that small civic efforts matter make it uplifting.

Streaming: Hulu, Netflix, or regional services (varies).

Brooklyn Nine-Nine (2013–2021)

The antics of a fun, caring NYPD precinct. Why it’s feel-good: It blends goofy humor, strong team bonds, and good-heartedness—even heavy moments are handled with sensitivity.

Streaming: Peacock (US) / Netflix / regional.

(These three tend to inspire laughter even in the low moments, and their episodes are structured so you can drop in anywhere.)

b. For Cozy Escapism

These shows feel like returning home.

Gilmore Girls (2000–2007)

Follow mother-daughter duo in charming Stars Hollow why it's feel-good: Witty dialogue, small-town closeness, and a comforting pace that allows characters to grow gently.

Streaming: Netflix, Hulu, or regional equivalents.

Schitt’s Creek (2015–2020)

A wealthy family loses it all and relocates to a small town they once bought as a joke. Why it’s feel-good: Themes of redemption, acceptance, and character growth carried with humor and emotional resonance.

Streaming: Netflix, Hulu, or regional.

Ted Lasso (2020– )

An American football coach leads a British soccer team. Why it’s feel-good: Its wholehearted kindness, optimism, and belief in people’s potential make it refreshingly uplifting.

Streaming: Apple TV+.

These feel-good shows don’t demand heavy attention—they’re perfect when you want emotional comfort more than plot intensity.

c. For Nostalgic Comfort

These shows bring back familiar, reassuring energy.

Friends (1994–2004)

Six friends navigate life, love, and work in NYC why it's feel-good: Timeless humor, warmth in relationships, and countless quotable, comforting moments.

Streaming: HBO Max, HBO / local services.

The Good Place (2016–2020)

A woman finds herself in the afterlife trying to become better. Why it’s feel-good: Philosophical yet lighthearted, it tackles ethics with humor and heart.

Streaming: Netflix, regional.

Modern Family (2009–2020)

A mockumentary about three linked families. Why it’s feel-good: Family chaos with warmth, inclusivity, and well-crafted comedic beats.

Streaming: Hulu, Disney+ / regional equivalents.

These shows feel like old friends, giving comfort through familiarity and nostalgia. Rewatching them is a mild, pleasant ritual.

d. For Heartwarming Drama

When laughter isn’t enough and emotional connection is what you crave.

This Is Us (2016–2022)

Follows the lives of siblings and their parents across multiple timelines. Why it's feel-good: Deep emotional storytelling, strong family resilience, and characters who feel authentic and compassionate. Streaming: Hulu, NBC / regional platforms.

Heartstopper (2022– )

A coming-of-age story about queer teens exploring friendship and love. Why it’s feel-good: Gentle pacing, affirming relationships, and positivity in identity and self-discovery.

Streaming: Netflix.

These dramas lean into tears and emotional payoff—but without overwhelming darkness.

e. For Short, Easy Binge Sessions

When energy is low and you just want something fun in short bursts.

Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt (2015–2019)

A woman adjusts to everyday life after years in captivity why it's feel-good: Quirky, vibrant, optimistic, and often absurd in the best way.

Streaming: Netflix.

Emily in Paris (2020– )

An American marketing executive starts anew in Paris why it's feel-good: Visual escape, light romantic drama, and upbeat tone.

Streaming: Netflix.

These shows are light, colorful, and ideal when you just need a quick mental lift without committing to every episode deeply.

How to Choose the Right Feel-Good Show for Your Mood

Choosing the right show often comes down to which emotional shift you need:

Anxiety or tension? Go for pure comedy. Laughter triggers dopamine and endorphins.

Sadness or loneliness? Nostalgic or sentimental shows build emotional connection.

Exhaustion? Cozy escapism or short-session shows give rest without heavy commitment.

Need catharsis? A heartwarming drama lets you feel deeply and then settle.

Here are quick tips:

Comedy for instant dopamine boost

Drama for emotional connection and release

Slice-of-life and cozy shows for calm background comfort

Use shorter episodes (20–30 minutes) when energy is low

Be okay with rewatching favorites—familiarity lightens mental load and brings comfort.

Also, match the pacing to your state: after a chaotic day, a slow, gentle show may soothe more than a fast-cut sitcom.

Building a personal "feel-good watchlist" means having go-to shows ready for any mood swing. Let these recommendations be your comfort reserves. And when life feels heavy, let a good story lift you—if only for an hour or two.