Yesterday, Christen led our podcast discussion about what we were currently watching, reading, and listening to. It was an opportunity for each of us to share some of the things we’ve been obsessed with lately, and the conversation eventually branched into snacks and other topics. (Do we ever stick to just one topic?) We discussed so many things, I didn’t think I had anything left to write about in a blog post. But as I was creating our Heard it on the Podcast post, I recalled something we’ve commented on before – a very distinct difference in the kinds of books, TV shows, and movies that I like to consume. After giving it some thought, I started to think that preference says a lot about the different ways we deal with trauma in our lives.
Take emotional dramas, for starters. I’ve often mentioned that I love heavy, emotional dramas like “A Million Little Things”, “This is Us”, and “Downton Abby”. I think it is because I find them to be so relatable. Regardless of age, sex, or personality type, I always find something in the characters that resonates with me. Often, the storylines move me to tears because I have so much empathy for what the characters are going through, and in some ways, it allows me to process my own experiences in a safe and non-threatening way. For instance, characters in “A Million Little Things” dealt with such heavy topics as breast cancer, suicide, loss of a spouse, sexual assault, and dementia – all things I have dealt with in my own life. Even though their circumstances were very different than mine, I could feel the emotions I imagined they felt, but in a much lighter way. Recognizing and allowing myself to feel those emotions allowed me to understand what I was feeling and face it head-on in a controlled environment. In short, it was very cathartic.
In contrast, Amber and Christen have both stated that they don’t like to watch heavy dramas precisely because they make them cry. Amber has even mentioned that she avoids stories that make her think of her parents because she doesn’t want to deal with the sadness they bring up. She’s not alone. Many people prefer to watch only comedies and light-hearted fare, and it’s no wonder. Watching comedies can provide people with a temporary respite from emotional stress, allowing them to rest and recharge. This is especially true when emotions are fresh and raw; humor can provide the mental space needed, allowing them to come back to their feelings later when they are in a better headspace. Sometimes, a comedy can help reframe difficult situations, making them seem less intimidating or overwhelming. Being able to view struggles from a different perspective is a crucial part of the healing process.
Whatever type of entertainment you prefer correlates with your emotional coping style. Emotional dramas work best for those who prefer to confront emotions head-on, while comedies appeal to those who need relief or a break from heavy emotions. People who enjoy both might benefit from a balance of emotional confrontation (through drama) and emotional relief (through comedy), suggesting that emotional healing often requires both elements—processing pain as well as finding moments of joy.
