Life can be overwhelming. Some days, it feels like everything’s happening all at once—work, family, the news, your to-do list that just won’t quit. And when it gets to that point, all you want is to shut the world out for a while and breathe.

That’s when I usually hit play on a suspense documentary or something about a serial killer. It’s not exactly light watching, I know, but there’s something oddly calming about sinking into a story that isn’t mine. It’s a way to reset my mind. Other times, I’ll get lost in a book or binge a K-drama (those storylines are wildly addictive).

Some might call it avoiding life. I call it survival.

The truth is, escapism gets a bad reputation. But not all forms of “escape” are harmful. Sometimes, escaping into someone else’s story is exactly what you need to come back to your own feeling a little lighter. A little more ready.

In this post, we’re going to talk about what escapism actually is, why it can be good for your mental health, and how shows, books, and movies can quietly become your go-to self-care routine. No guilt. Just a reminder that it’s okay to tune out to tune back in.

What Is Escapism, Really?

Escapism isn’t some deep psychological concept that only therapists talk about. It’s actually pretty simple—it’s the way we take a mental break from reality. It’s what we do when life feels heavy and we just need a breather. For some people, it’s daydreaming. For others, it’s diving headfirst into a book, zoning out with a movie, or binge-watching crime documentaries like there’s no tomorrow (guilty) ✋✋

It doesn’t always mean someone’s trying to avoid their problems. Sometimes, it’s just about protecting your peace. Giving your brain a time-out so you don’t burn out.

Think about it. You’ve had a long day. Your brain’s running on low battery. Do you really want to dissect every adulting problem you’ve got? Or would you rather watch a twisted mystery unfold while you eat snacks in peace? Escapism, right there.

And no, it’s not a sign of weakness. It’s just how some of us cope—and honestly, it can be healthier than scrolling endlessly on social media or letting anxiety take over.

That said, not all escapism is created equal. There’s a difference between taking a break and straight-up checking out of life for days. When it’s used mindfully, though? It becomes more than just “zoning out.” It becomes comfort. A reset. A way to recharge without feeling like you’re doing something wrong.

Why a Little Escape Is Good for the Mind

Constantly staying “on” isn’t sustainable. Your brain isn’t a machine. It needs breaks, even the kind that come with subtitles or a plot twist you didn’t see coming.

Escapism gives your mind that breathing room. When you watch a story unfold, get lost in a book, or follow a true crime case like you’re part of the investigation, your thoughts shift gears. You stop looping through your own worries, even if just for a while. And that pause? It matters more than people realize.

A good escape can help ease stress, especially when you’re juggling work, parenting, or just trying to function in this loud, demanding world. Sometimes, watching a K-drama filled with dramatic glances and emotional rollercoasters is weirdly soothing—because you’re watching someone else deal with chaos for once. The same goes for suspense documentaries. There’s structure, a narrative, a resolution… unlike real life, which can sometimes feel like a constant stream of tasks with no finish line.

Escaping into stories doesn’t mean you’re ignoring your life. It means you’re stepping away long enough to come back with a clearer head. It gives your emotions space to breathe. That can make you more focused, less reactive, and even a little more creative once you return.

How To Make Escapism Part of Your Self-Care Routine

Escapism works best when you’re in control of it—not the other way around. When done right, it can become a comforting part of your self-care routine.

Start by choosing your escape with a little intention. Don’t just scroll endlessly until something “meh” shows up. Instead, pick a show, movie, or book that matches your mood. Feeling drained? Go for something comforting or familiar. Personally, when I can’t decide, I hit replay on my all-time favorites—Reply 1988 when I need warmth and nostalgia, Dexter when I’m in the mood for something dark and twisty, or Breaking Bad when I want that intense, edge-of-your-seat kind of escape.

Need a full-on distraction? A fast-paced thriller or an intense documentary usually does the trick. Recently, I watched Twister—a gripping docu about the devastating tornado that tore through Joplin, Missouri. It was intense but oddly grounding. The key is knowing what your mind needs and giving yourself that space—without guilt.

Create little rituals around it. Maybe it’s a Friday night K-drama binge with your favorite blanket. Or a daily reading break while sipping coffee. Even just thirty minutes of uninterrupted “me time” with a gripping story can reset your whole mood.

And remember—it doesn’t have to be hours long. Small, intentional escapes are often more refreshing than marathon sessions that leave you feeling like a zombie.

Also, check in with yourself. After a movie or a few chapters, ask: Do I feel better? Calmer? Lighter? If the answer’s yes, then great—it’s doing its job. If not, maybe it’s time to switch it up or step away for a bit.

When Escaping Becomes Avoiding

When stories become a way to completely tune out from real life instead of just taking a breather, escapism stops being helpful.

If you’re skipping meals, ignoring messages, or dodging responsibilities just to stay lost in a show or book, it might be time to check in with yourself. The same goes if you feel more connected to fictional characters than the people around you. Escapism should leave you feeling better—not disconnected, guilty, or numb.

It’s also worth noticing if you’re using it to avoid emotions altogether. Getting swept up in someone else’s drama can feel easier than facing your own, but those feelings have a way of sticking around until they’re dealt with.

Final Thoughts

Escaping into stories isn’t about running away—it’s about finding small moments that make life feel a little lighter. Whether it’s five minutes or an entire evening, giving yourself that time can make all the difference. So the next time your mind needs a break, give yourself permission to press play, turn the page, or just pause. You’ve earned it—and honestly, your peace of mind deserves the spotlight too.