Brits turn to TV to solve their problems

15:17 11 October 2011

A survey released today by HBO Home Entertainment shows that 39 per cent of Brits would turn to a television programme for help with solving issues in their own lives.

The research was carried out to mark the release of the critically-acclaimed In Treatment Series 2, which is out on DVD on 11 October, and found that television is quickly becoming a key source of home therapy.

Almost three quarters of the nation consider television theraputic, with more women than men finding it a suitable coping mechanism. As thought-provoking series such as the returning series of In Treatment and light-hearted comedies like Miranda rise up the TV charts, women are looking to popular storylines which reflect day-to-day concerns of self image and family issues.

When asked about what problems they might seek support for, a quarter of those felt personal trauma would be the most compelling reason for visiting a therapist. It appears Brits may also be most concerned about themselves, as more admitted to worrying about dieting and self image over relationships with loved ones.

The survey also found that the younger generation feel most pressure. Over half of 18-34 year olds feel they would benefit from therapy or councelling, despite the large majority of this age group having never visited one before.

In the series In Treatment, psychotherapist Dr Paul Weston, played by Gabriel Byrne, opens up his office for an intimate look at what it's really like to bare all on the couch and deals with issues such as divorce, chronic illness, work related anxiety and resentment - concerns that many viewers will be tuning in to find out the doctor's diagnosis firsthand.