Top Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and HBO Shows to Take Your Mind Off Things

Sometimes we just need a moment to relax and watch some pointless television to take our mind off things. With everything that is going on in the world, it can be hard to separate ourselves from news outlets and social media – that’s where streaming services come in. If you’re looking for something to watch to ease your mind and help you forget about the worries of the day, here are my Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and HBO recommendations.

Netflix - Tiger King

This show is all anyone with Netflix can talk about and if you decide to watch, you’re in for a real treat. This true crime documentary mini-series focuses on the life of (now incarcerated) zookeeper Joe Exotic and the deeply interconnected relationships of big cat conservationists. There are some very eccentric characters in this show and it’s just enough crazy to make you forget what’s going on in our world at the moment. There are seven episodes, each running about 40-41 minutes, which is just enough to give your mind a rest at night and start fresh in the morning.

Hulu – Brooklyn Nine-Nine

If you’re a fan of The Office, Friends, or Parks and Recreation, you’re bound to enjoy Brooklyn Nine-Nine. This show moves quickly with hilarious 20-minute episodes. Currently, there are 7 seasons and 137 episodes, and the best part is that you don’t have to follow along very intently. I find that a lot of the time, I enjoy shows that can be played in the background while I accomplish other things, and this is one of those shows for sure. So, sit back, relax, and the further you get into the series the less you will be able to say “nine-nine!” the proper way.

Disney+ - Tangled

Tangled has been one of my favorite Disney movies since its release in 2010. I was on the older side for Disney movies, but I was an immediate fan after watching. Everyone knows the story of Rapunzel and Disney put their magical twist on this one. My favorite part of course being that the female lead saves herself. This was a big shift for Disney, as typically, the knight in shining armor or prince would save the princess. Rapunzel is confident and strong enough to save herself from her captor – a role model that all little girls need. Get ready to discover that Tangled is among your Disney favorites!

HBO – McMillions

If you enjoy true crime and the occasional docuseries like I do, you will love McMillions. We all remember McDonald’s Monopoly, right? But did you know there were zero legitimate winners of the contest? I won’t give it all away, but in six episodes you’ll learn about the game scam that occurred between 1981 and 2001 and the $24 million worth of fraud that came with it.

Focusing on the positives and making sure you are taking care of yourself is also more important than ever. Take some time to watch TV or do something that relaxes you each day. Click here to see more tips for maintaining your mental health from Dr. Anthony Chico, Chief, Emergency Psychiatry at GBMC.

*Click here for more information about the coronavirus (COVID-19)*