Boston proudly touts the moniker “Titletown, USA,” due to the sustained success of the city’s many sports franchises throughout the 20^th and 21^st centuries. Arguably, no one is prouder of that nickname than the sports fans who have ridden the waves of New England’s winning ways.

But being a sports fan is often about more than just watching games — it’s an all-encompassing experience that connects people to something bigger than themselves. The passion that comes with being a fan provides deep psychological and emotional rewards — and challenges — that can have impacts on mental health. 

The power of community and connection

One of the most compelling mental health benefits of being a sports fan is the sense of community it creates. Sports fans often form close-knit networks — in person and online — with others who share their passion for a particular team or sport.

“Especially in Boston and New England, being a sports fan means being a part of a community and can foster a sense of belonging,” says Bill Harlan, LMHC, vice president of behavioral health and health engagement at Point32Health, the parent company of Harvard Pilgrim Health Care and Tufts Health Plan.

When fans talk about their favorite teams, attend games together, or watch sporting events with family and friends, they strengthen their social bonds. Studies have shown that strong social networks reduce feelings of loneliness, increase happiness, and even boost immune system function. These positive interactions contribute to a sense of connection, which is essential for maintaining good mental health.

Finding a healthy outlet for stress

Sports fandom can evoke a wide range of emotions that impact people differently. “The emotional rollercoaster of being a sports fan can be intense,” says Harlan. “A win can make you feel on top of the world, but a big loss can feel like a punch to the gut.” 

This emotional range challenges fans to regulate these intense feelings. At its best, being a sports fan can serve as a healthy outlet for expression. The act of cheering for a team or reacting to a victory or loss can allow fans to channel their feelings in a controlled environment. The excitement of a close win can trigger a flood of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure, which helps boost a fan’s mood and combat stress. 

A healthy type of stress while watching games — often referred to as “eustress” — can be beneficial. As Harlan puts it, eustress is the “fun type of excitement we feel when watching our team pull out a win in a close game.” Unlike the stress that arises from conflicts, eustress provides a healthy form of excitement without the long-term negative effects of chronic stress.  

However, when a team loses, fans must be able to cope with disappointment and frustration in healthy ways. “The fact that we see a 10 percent increase in domestic violence following an ‘upset loss’ tells us we have more to do to keep sports safe and protect those who are vulnerable,” notes Harlan.

Recognizing the difference and avoiding unhealthy stress from sports can help fans maintain a balanced and positive relationship with their beloved teams.

Why we love awe-inspiring athletes

Being a sports fan also provides opportunities for awe, an emotion that has been proven to positively impact our mental health. Awe occurs when we witness something that exceeds our expectations or defies normal understanding — like the Patriots’ 28-3 Super Bowl comeback or the Red Sox “reversing the curse” by winning their first World Series in 86 years in 2004. 

“Research is revealing that ‘awe’ has numerous physical and mental health benefits,” says Jonathan Roberts, operations manager for mindful-based learning at Point32Health. “And what better triggers the awe response than watching athletes at the peak of their powers perform what sometimes seem like superhuman acts? Whether you’re witnessing Simone Biles nailing a triple-double landing, Michael Jordan sailing above the court on his way to the basket, or Travis Kelce plucking the football out of the air for a 65-yard reception, it’s hard not to feel energized and awe-ful.”

Awe can also promote mental clarity. When fans are immersed in a thrilling game or a particularly stunning athletic performance, they are often fully present in the moment. This mindfulness — being deeply engaged in the present without distraction — can lower anxiety and increase overall happiness.

Maintaining boundaries for healthy sports fandom

While being a sports fan has numerous mental health benefits, it’s important to know where to draw the line when it comes to following a favorite team. When sports fandom becomes all-consuming, it can lead to stress or frustration, especially if a fan begins to internalize losses too deeply.

Having other hobbies, practicing mindfulness, and taking time to reflect on the bigger picture can help fans manage their emotional engagement with sports. By striking that balance, fans can continue to enjoy the positive aspects of sports fandom without letting them negatively impact their mental health. 

“Keeping your enthusiasm healthy means setting boundaries,” Harlan shares. “Know when to get off the roller coaster, find additional interests, spend time with others, and keep a balanced perspective.”

And for anyone looking to further prioritize their mental health, consider your health plan for support. Harvard Pilgrim members, for example, can work with exclusive behavioral health service navigators who can help them get timely appointments with the right therapist or recommend resources and tools to support their specific needs.             

The mental health benefits of being a sports fan extend far beyond the games themselves. It’s also about embracing a shared lifestyle and community that can lead to greater happiness, connection, and well-being.

Harvard Pilgrim Health Care, a Point32Health company, provides nationally ranked health plans and care-based programs and services to nearly 900,000 members in New England and beyond. Founded by doctors more than 50 years ago, it builds on that legacy and partnerships through an expansive network of doctors and hospitals nationwide to improve health outcomes and lower costs through clinical quality and innovative care management.  A leading, not-for-profit health and well-being company, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care guides members — and the communities it serves — to better health each day.