Top 10 Shows That Will Instantly Boost Your Mood
#10: “Parks and Recreation” (2009-15; 2020)
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Feeling down about the gloomy state of things? Allow us to suggest a workplace comedy that will instantly lift your spirits. “The Office,” for instance, never disappoints. But we have to go with another hilarious mockumentary sitcom – “Parks and Recreation.” Every time we visit the fictional but endearing town that is Pawnee through our screens, we feel happy. Everything, from Leslie’s unfailing optimism and determination, to Ron’s hysterical no-nonsense attitude, to April’s brutal remarks, allows us to forget our troubles for a time. Plus, the show never takes itself too seriously, while making the mundane side of government and bureaucracy fun – red tape and all. Just grab some waffles, press play, and get ready to have a blast.
#9: “Glee” (2009-15)
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The initial plot of this show is simple: teens join their school’s Glee Club, which is helmed by a teacher who’s eager to help. We follow them as they navigate different chapters of life over the years. But while the premise is straightforward, “Glee” is anything but boring. Big and extra in the most entertaining of ways, it delivers some show-stopping musical numbers, while also touching on a slew of serious topics. Sure, sometimes it fumbles the ball, but there’s a sincerity and message about following your dreams running through the chaos that makes for an uplifting watch. So you can always count on this musical dramedy to sing you a sad or happy song – depending on what you need that day!
#8: “Crazy Ex-Girlfriend” (2015-19)
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A show that features drama, comedy, music, and a real, humanizing exploration of sexuality and mental health? Sign us up! When we meet Rebecca Bunch, she’s a little lost. Needless to say, it doesn’t take long before we grow incredibly invested in her journey — and the songs that help see her through it. But “Crazy Ex-Girlfriend” isn’t just entertaining. The characters are fleshed out and relatable, drawing us in. The same can be said for the musical numbers. They’re catchy, to be sure, but they also know how to cut to the core of deeply human experiences. You’ll find yourself giggling at the awkward situations, crying at the more serious ones, and above all – feeling better by the end.
#7: “Modern Family” (2009-20)
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When you think about sitcoms that strike the perfect balance between humor, relatability, and realism, “Modern Family” is sure to cross your mind. It’s no wonder it’s an ideal pick me up during rough days. No two people or families on the show are exactly alike, so the stories that are told have the ability to reflect a wider range of experiences. That alone is refreshing, but the top-tier execution and stellar cast elevate the result even more. That’s because they bring those experiences to life in a vivid way that shows anyone watching they’re not alone. With 11 seasons worth of good times at our disposal, the better mood is sure to last quite a while!
#6: “New Girl” (2011-18)
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It can be really hard to stay positive when you feel like everything around you is crumbling. But don’t worry – “New Girl” can be optimistic for you, and ease some of that burden. Chances are you’ll find yourself nodding excitedly, proclaiming “same!” as you watch Jess, Nick, Cece, Schmidt, Winston, Coach and company work through everyday things. From romance to friendship to professional struggles, there are few realities the sitcom doesn’t delve into, always with a funny, sharp, clever, and unconventional hand. Before you know it, you’ll be totally immersed in the world of this zany ensemble show and will find yourself looking on the bright side in a way that feels effortless.
#5: “Gilmore Girls” (2000-07)
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Wherever this dramedy leads, we will follow. At its core, it’s about mother-daughter duo Lorelai and Rory, their dreams, and their relationships with each other and those around them. The series is sweet, quotable, smart, and heartwarming. More than that, it makes us believe everything will be okay – even when it’s hard – because it leads with love. Therein lies its magic. The town of Stars Hollow, for its part, is a fictional place – but the amount of comfort it brings us is very real. In other words, the show is like the television version of a warm embrace. So the next time you’re feeling lonely and so cold, all you have to do is cue up “Gilmore Girls.” It always works for us!
#4: “The Golden Girls” (1985-92)
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Are you a Blanche, a Rose, a Dorothy, or a Sophia? Maybe there’s someone in particular you identify with, or maybe you’re a mix of a few different characters! But no matter your answer, one thing most of us probably have in common is how much joy seeing the women in action (and eating cheesecake) brings us. The fact that we find ourselves doubled over with laughter several times per episode is a big part of that. The way the sitcom can go between silly and serious while always feeling thoughtful is definitely another. At the end of the day, the world doesn’t seem as overwhelming in “The Golden Girls”’ presence, and we thank them for being our friends.
#3: “Schitt's Creek” (2015-20)
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You know the trope: an über rich family loses almost everything and gets a major reality check. For the Roses, that reality check comes in the form of Schitt's Creek, a modest town they own. They may be grossed out at first, but gradually, they become part of the community. If watching them learn about themselves through this process isn’t enough to cheer you up, the many bold personalities on display definitely will. Moira’s posh nature, Johnny’s pragmatic panic, David’s sarcasm, and Alexis’ wild stories delight at every turn. And that’s saying nothing of the other quirky characters, who always make us feel welcome. There’s never a dull moment if this group is around, which means it’s basically impossible to stay cranky in their presence!
#2: “Ted Lasso” (2020-)
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Has life thrown you curveballs? Do you feel like a fish out of water? Are you looking for a reminder that humanity is good? If you answered yes to any of those questions, you need “Ted Lasso”. Every person on the show is impeccably cast, and their characters, in turn, become like our confidantes. When Rebecca and Keeley or the Diamond Dogs give each other advice, for instance, we feel like they’re guiding us, too. We probably don’t have to tell you that life is less scary with that kind of support. Come for the dramedy’s soccer (or okay, football), but stay for the inspiring, cozy energy that can help heal any ailing heart – and the biscuits, definitely also stay for the biscuits.
Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.
“Schmigadoon!” (2021-)
Stories That Will Motivate You to Tackle Your Own Battles
“The Good Place” (2016-20)
The Humor & Fresh Take on Morality & the Afterlife Are Sure to Make You Smile
“Lizzie McGuire” (2001-04)
Lizzie & Co. Can Cheer Anyone Up!
“Full House” (1987-95)
We Have Full Hearts Watching This Family
“How I Met Your Mother” (2005-14)
This Rollercoaster of a Journey Is Also a Hopeful One
#1: “Friends” (1994-2004)
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Some shows are more than just shows. They provide an escape, hug us in our darkest hours, and become like home in their own unique way. “Friends” fits that bill to a tee. Rachel, Ross, Monica, Chandler, Joey, and Phoebe are just figuring life out like the rest of us. We see ourselves in them, and laughing and crying alongside them is nothing short of cathartic. When it feels like we’re stuck in second gear, when it hasn't been our day, our week, our month, or even our year, we turn to this gang. No matter how dire things seem, we know they, the purple apartment, and Central Perk will be there to put a smile on our faces.
