1. Anticipation
You've asked all your sisters and friends what shows they've enjoyed so you can have several options to sort through. You've considered their suggestions and now you've picked THE one. You open up your computer and press play "Season 1, Episode 1." Let the fun begin.
2. Recreational Usage
You're pretty into the first couple of episodes, but nothing special has really happened yet, just the normal introduction of characters, etc. You want to continue the show and wait for what comes next.
3. Problem Watching
That episode (probably between episodes 3 and 6) just happened. You know, the one where s*** just got real. You're going out of your way to watch the show, maybe showing up a few minutes late to your chapter meetings or ditching your friends for dinner.
4. Involvement/Dependency
You firmly believe you are a part of the show. You are there for the characters, you're their friend or foe. You want to console them when they are down and celebrate with them when they are happy. You hate that betch that cheated on the lead male actor more than you hate your ex that cheated on you. Signs that you may have entered this stage are crying, increased heart rate and blood pressure, and nail biting while watching the show.
5. Addiction
It's official. You are staying up all night watching, waiting to see what happens next. You may be skipping class or staying in your room all day just to watch. Your phone is nonexistent, as is the outside world. Your friends question whether you are alive or not...maybe you do too. Signs you may have entered this stage are a chronic, zombie-like facial expression, glazed eyes from staring at the screen and solitary confinement.
6. Depression
It's over. You have finished all 10 seasons and it's only been a week, leaving you wanting more. You feel lost and empty inside. You may create alternate endings to the show in your head to consume your time, but nothing can replace the joy it gave you. And although you feel void at the end of it, you know you will repeat the process again for the next show.