Top 7 TV Shows Every Uni Student Should Watch to De-Stress

Life at university in the UK can be hard, stressful, and overwhelming at times. Students often need a break to recharge, as they juggle coursework, part-time jobs, and social commitments. Watching something light, funny, and engaging is one of the best ways to unwind after a long day. Streaming platforms like Netflix are ideal for students who want a quick mental break from their studies.

A Classic Comedy That Never Gets Old
Friends remains a top pick for students who want to escape and enjoy some feel-good TV. The show follows six friends navigating adulthood in New York City. Despite its American setting, its themes friendship, career challenges, and love are highly relatable for UK students.

Why It's Perfect for Uni Students:
Short, binge-worthy episodes

Comedy with a Thought-Provoking Twist
The Good Place is a unique mix of philosophy, humour, and moral questions. It follows Eleanor Shellstrop in the afterlife as she tries to hide her morally questionable past.

Why Students Love It:
Engages the mind while delivering laughs
Explores ethics in a light-hearted way
Promotes self-reflection and growth

Bold, British, and Brilliant
Sex Education is incredibly relatable for UK students. It follows Otis, an awkward teenager who opens a secret sex therapy clinic at school. Set in the UK, its characters and stories resonate deeply with university audiences.

Why It Stands Out:
Open and honest discussions of real-life issues

The British humour and familiar setting make it a must-watch for UK uni students.

Feel-Good Cop Comedy
Brooklyn Nine-Nine offers laugh-out-loud moments and lovable characters. Set in a New York police precinct, it focuses on the hilarious detective Jake Peralta and his quirky colleagues.

Best Parts for Students:
Quick wit and strong character development
Easy to follow even while multitasking
Positive tone that encourages relaxation
A perfect addition to any student's de-stress watchlist.

Irish Comedy That Captures Teenage Chaos
Derry Girls is a comedy set in 1990s Northern Ireland, during The Troubles. It follows a group of high school girls as they navigate adolescence in a tense but often hilarious environment.

Reasons to Watch:
Fast-paced episodes, great for short breaks
British-Irish humour resonates with UK audiences
Themes of rebellion, friendship, and growing up
A cultural gem that offers both laughter and history.

Dark Comedy That Resonates
BoJack Horseman dives deep into mental health, stardom, and regret. The former sitcom star BoJack must face his past and battle inner demons.

Ideal for:
Students drawn to deep, character-driven stories
Anyone coping with stress, identity, or uncertainty
Fans of satire and reflective storytelling
It tackles heavy themes but sparks important conversations around mental health and purpose.

Mockumentary Madness
Whether you prefer the dry British humour of Ricky Gervais or the quirky charm of Steve Carell, The Office delivers hilariously awkward workplace moments.

Perfect for:
Watching in short bursts between study blocks
Laughing at everyday adulting struggles
Decompressing with light-hearted storytelling

This classic remains a student favourite for good reason.