When life is getting you down, the perfect antidote is to seek escapism in the form of TV shows.

Shows that can offer a nice little brain massage when you need to step away from it all for a moment or two.

Comfort shows hold a very important place in our self-care and well-being which is why I've pulled together a bunch of series that, time and time again, prove that the entertainment industry offers more than meets the eye.

I know I know, TV shows are hardly solving the world's problems but they sure do provide a nice warm hug through the screen when we need it most.

Here are the 8 best comfort shows streaming onStannow.

Younger.

WhenYoungerpremiered in 2015 it was exactly the series ourSex and the City-lovin' hearts were missing. While not totally synonymous with the famed SATC,Youngergave us fashion, a New York backdrop and stories centred around strong, complicated women.

When Eliza finds herself needing to jump back into the workforce after a nasty divorce and an extended period being as stay-at-home-mum, she lies about her age to nab a high-flying publishing assistant role in the city.

Watch this if only to see the wonderful Hilary Duff back on our screens.

Parks and Recreation.

When Amy Poehler leftSaturday Night Liveas a regular cast member we all watched on with bated breath to see where this comedy genius would land. Thankfully for us she found herself starring as Leslie Knope in the new NBC seriesParks and Recreation.

Her ability to lead a cast through this political satire mockumentary show is one of the reasons why she's so good at what she does. When I had a colicky newborn up all night I'd pop onParks and Recreationin the wee hours and found great comfort in watching a series that is joy in a bottle.

Hart of Dixie.

We're not sure what kind of voodoo magic is at work here but there's something incredibly soothing about watching Rachel Bilson on screen. We loved her inThe O.C.and we love her inHart of Dixie.

The CW Network's four-season series about a heart surgeon who leaves New York to take up a post in Alabama is just about as comforting a show as you'll get. There's a love triangle, scandalous small-town drama, and fashion plucked right from the streets of 2011 to gawk at.

What more could you want in a show?

Sullivan's Crossing.

If you're a fan of shows about young women leaving the big smoke to return to their idyllic hometown (niche, I know, but actually quite a popular genre), thenSullivan's Crossingis going to be the getaway TV series your brain needs.

Based on the novel by Robyn Carr, this TV adaptation has just premiered its second season on Stan with Morgan Kohan and Chad Michael Murray returning to Sullivan's Crossing to continue this story.

It's an easy watch so let your mind switch off and float to Nova Scotia.

Scrubs.

Despite this show focusing on a group of medical professionals working in a fictional hospital called Sacred Heart in America,Scrubshad universal appeal when it first aired in 2001. Created by Bill Lawrence,Scrubswas a launch pad for Zach Braff who was enigmatic in the lead role of clumsy, lovable and dorky doctor J.D.

There's so much comfort in rewatching this show, like visiting a bunch of friends you haven't seen in a while. From the fantastic comedy writing to the talented cast, this show is not only very funny but it packs a punch in the heart department too, which is a nice little bonus.

Normal People.

While the 'will-they-won't-they' aspect of Connell and Marianne's love story isn't entirely relaxing, there's something about their deep connection that feels like home. As their relationship spans over a number of years they always seem to find each other and that unbridled spark is never gone.

I always find myself coming back to this series and find comfort in picking up new aspects of this modern romance that tugs at the heart and let's be honest, is one of the best depictions of on-screen chemistry we've seen in recent years.

Gavin & Stacey.

"Chicken Bhuna, Lamb Bhuna, Prawn Bhuna, mushroom rice, bag of chips, Keema Naan and nine Poppadoms." Yes I've memorised Smithy's Indian takeout order and no I'm not ashamed of retaining this pointless piece of information.

But that's exactly what happens when you become a fan of BBC's much-lovedGavin & Stacey— the idiosyncrasies and hallmark moments seep into your every day vernacular burrowed in to stay forever.

After first premiering in 2007 this show about not much except for a very wholesome love story between a Brit and a Welsh lass found an audience fast. It's endearing in its simplicity and you'll find yourself returning whenever you need a hug in the form of a show.

Extras.

Keeping on theme with British comedy shows that just makes sense, we've gotExtras. From the brilliant mind of Ricky Gervais this two-season series brought together some of the biggest stars in the world for cameos including Kate Winslet, Orlando Bloom, Ben Stiller, Sir Ian McKellan and the late David Bowie.

I quite simply will never tire of seeing the unmatched comedy volleying between Gervais, Ashley Jensen and Stephen Merchant as they tread the waters of working as acting extras rubbing shoulders with A-listers.Extraswill make you giggle and boost that serotonin each and every time you watch.

You can now stream all of these shows right now on Stan.

Feature Image: Paramount, Hulu, The CW Network.

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