Streaming Giants Netflix and Hulu: Fueling a Modern Health Crisis

Your favorite adrenaline-packed TV show might be contributing to weight gain, insomnia, and chest tightness. Experts warn that intense movies or series spike cortisol and activate the body’s “fight or flight” response, raising heart rates and stress levels. Dramatic content can also skew your mood and real-life reactions, while triggering trauma survivors with flashbacks or PTSD.

Stressful TV content can trigger physical responses like increased heart rate. (Image: Getty)

Dr. Thea Gallagher, a clinical psychologist, notes that such shows may linger in your mind, causing restlessness or a racing heart. A 2014 study in the AHA Journal found stressful scenes disrupt heart rhythms, posing risks for those with cardiac issues. Similarly, University College London researchers observed blood pressure spikes and faster breathing in viewers of emotional clips, signaling strain on the heart.

Long-term stress from gripping shows can weaken the heart muscle, raising risks of heart failure. Beyond physical effects, dark themes like violence or horror activate the brain’s hypothalamus, flooding the body with cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones keep the body tense, and while they taper off post-viewing, repeated exposure harms mental health.

Intense shows before bed can lead to poor sleep and chronic health issues. (Image: Shutterstock)

Poor sleep from late-night binge-watching exacerbates obesity, dementia risks, and anxiety. Dr. Paul Weigle, a mental health expert, warns that violent content correlates with heightened stress and even suicidal behavior. For example, teen suicide rates jumped 30% after 13 Reasons Why premiered, with vulnerable viewers emulating depicted tragedies.

To mitigate harm, opt for uplifting shows like Ted Lasso before bed. Lighthearted content fosters relaxation, aiding better sleep and emotional resilience. Experts urge media to follow guidelines on sensitive topics, as careless portrayals risk public health.