As a lifelong Philadelphia Eagles fan, I can say with certainty that my mental health has been deeply intertwined with my team’s performance. When the Eagles won the Super Bowl in 2018, and again this year, I was on cloud nine, feeling an almost surreal sense of euphoria that lasted for weeks. But when they lose—especially in a heartbreaking fashion—it feels heavy, as if I’ve personally suffered a loss.
This experience isn’t unique to me. Research has shown that sports fandom can have a profound impact on mental health, both positive and negative (Wann, 2006). But what exactly happens in our brains when we live and die with our team? And how can we maintain mental balance when the losses inevitably come?
The Psychological Power of Sports Fandom
Sports fandom is more than just entertainment; it’s a deep emotional connection. When we root for a team, we form a social identity—our team’s success feels like our success, and their struggles feel like our struggles. The sense of belonging that comes with being a fan is psychologically powerful, fostering community, reducing feelings of loneliness, and even boosting self-esteem (Branscombe & Wann, 1992).
Neuroscience backs this up. Watching our team win triggers a release of dopamine, the brain’s “feel-good” chemical (Murray & Fazio, 2014). It’s the same neurotransmitter that is activated when we achieve personal success, reinforcing our emotional investment. Conversely, losses can activate areas of the brain associated with pain and disappointment, making sports heartbreak feel all too real.
The Emotional Rollercoaster: Why We Take It So Personally
For die-hard fans, sports aren’t just a pastime—they’re a passion, a ritual, and, in many cases, an identity. Psychologists refer to this as “basking in reflected glory” (BIRGing)—when our team wins, we feel like winners too (Cialdini et al., 1976). Conversely, “cutting off reflected failure” (CORFing) explains why some fans distance themselves from their team after a tough loss.
For Eagles fans like myself, who have endured years of frustration before tasting championship glory, the emotional stakes feel even higher. When we invest our hearts and energy into our team, a loss isn’t just a mark in the standings—it’s personal. But does that mean we should let our mental health hinge on something we can’t control? Not necessarily.
Coping When Your Team Loses: Strategies for Mental Well-Being
Given how deeply sports can impact our emotions, it’s important to have strategies for staying balanced, especially when our team is struggling. Here are some ways to manage the emotional highs and lows:
1. Maintain Perspective: It’s OK to be passionate, but remember—it’s just a game. Keeping a big-picture view can help prevent losses from weighing too heavily.
2. Connect With Fellow Fans: Whether in celebration or commiseration, talking with other fans can help regulate emotions. The sense of community remains, win or lose.
3. Engage in Other Activities: Diversifying interests can prevent sports from becoming an all-consuming emotional rollercoaster. Exercise, hobbies, and socializing can help balance the highs and lows.
4. Limit Social Media Exposure: After a tough loss, scrolling through endless commentary can reinforce negativity. Taking a break from heated discussions can be beneficial for mental well-being.
5. Practice Mindfulness and Acceptance: Acknowledge the disappointment, but don’t dwell on it. Practicing mindfulness techniques can help you reduce stress and refocus on what’s within your control (Passmore & Brown, 2009).
6. Celebrate Small Wins: Even in a tough season, find positives—player improvements, memorable moments, or the simple joy of game-day traditions.
Final Thoughts
Being a passionate sports fan is an emotional investment, but it doesn’t have to come at the cost of our mental well-being. While wins can bring elation, losses don’t have to be devastating if we manage our emotions effectively. And for those of us who bleed green, we know that no matter how tough the losses, the love for our team never fades.
Fly, Eagles Fly—through the highs, the lows, and everything in between.
