The eighties… Demogorgon… Upside down… Ring any bells? If it does, you know what I’m talking about. If your first guess was Netflix’s Stranger Things, you are absolutely right and yes, we are talking about the same supernatural thrill and 1980s nostalgia, which made the internet go crazy since the day it was released. But apart from the exhilarating chase and horrors of the Upside Down, Stranger Things also subtly highlights certain habits that might prove to be beneficial for mental health. The habits practised by the show’s beloved characters, be it building strong friendships, facing one’s fears or communicating effectively, offer valuable lessons on maintaining mental well-being.
So if you’re someone who has watched Stranger Things before but wants to look at it from a completely different lens, you are at the right place. Buckle up your seat belt and take a ride with us back to the eighties and learn something new!
Riding Bikes
From heading to school on a random Tuesday to looking for a missing friend, the kids in Stranger Things are always seen biking around Hawkins. It has been proven that regular physical activity like cycling releases endorphins, which is a natural mood booster.
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Getting outside on your bike and making it a part of your routine can help reduce stress, improve sleep quality and help with overall mental clarity. It is also an excellent way to clear your mind and manage anxiety.
Building Strong Friendships
Apart from all the chaos and thrill, the highlight of the show is the unbreakable bond between the main characters. Each one of them did everything in their power to support the others, be it through everyday teenage struggles or defeating the evils from Upside Down.
Research has shown that social connectedness is a determinant of mental health and can significantly reduce feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and depression. Prioritising meaningful friendships can do wonders for you since having a strong support system can help you cope with difficulties with ease and maybe a little fun.
Also Read: Must-Watch Movies That Will Make You Rethink Your Sleep Habits
Facing Your Fears
Be it The Mind Flayer, Demogorgon or Vecna, the Stranger Things storyline is filled with scary and creepy creatures from the Upside Down and our beloved characters always face them head-on despite their fear.
It is known that instead of avoiding one’s fears, confronting them bravely is what builds resilience and reduces any long-term anxiety. Exposure to such challenging situations helps one deal with their fear and desensitise it in a way that it isn’t as overwhelming the next time.
Interacting With Nature
Throughout the series, the protagonists are seen spending a significant amount of time in the woods, be it for looking for the missing friend, or to strategise their next move.
Research has shown that spending time in nature relieves stress, improves mood, and enhances overall well-being, Simply stepping outside for fresh air can lower cortisol levels and help you feel more grounded.
Importance Of Communication
Communication played a pivotal role throughout the series despite the recurring misunderstandings and conflicts between the characters. To overcome such hurdles, characters always took the path of open communication and expressing how they feel, which led to stronger connections.
It is known that effective communication fosters trust and emotional support, making it much easier to navigate difficult situations, and can greatly benefit your mental health.
Bottomline
Stranger Things is an absolute must-watch, not just because of its supernatural mystery and thrilling adventures, but for the subtle lessons it delivers on well-being. This show doesn’t leave any stone unturned in highlighting positive habits that can make a significant difference in one’s life. So the next time you are watching Stranger Things, take a moment to appreciate the mental health wisdom hidden within the show’s gripping narrative.
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