With the Super Bowl just days away, you’re probably gearing up to cheer, scream, and maybe even argue over the game—and that’s a good thing. As the Clinical Director of Counselling Services at TELUS Health MyCare™, I’ve seen firsthand how connecting over moments like these can improve wellbeing. 

So, go ahead and scream at the Chiefs! It’s great for your mental health. Here’s why watching sports is good for you:

1. Reduces loneliness

One of the best things about watching sports is the sense of connection it provides. Whether in a packed stadium or a group chat with friends, rooting for–or against–a team brings people together. My mother, a die-hard Canucks fan, lives alone and enjoys connecting with friends over the phone during games to chat about what’s happening.

The post-COVID world has taught us a lot about isolation and how much we crave connection. Even if you head to a pub to watch a game on your own, you instantly become part of a community of like-minded fans. This can temporarily ease feelings of loneliness and provide a sense of belonging.

2. Lets you be free with your emotions

You don’t always have the chance to let your emotions out in everyday life. But during a game? All bets are off. You can jump, cheer, scream, and even cry over a heartbreaking loss. That emotional release is great for your brain.

Watching sports stimulates the release of dopamine, the brain’s feel-good chemical. The thrill of a nail-biting finish or the joy of an underdog victory can help tackle stress and recharge you. Go ahead, yell at the screen—get it all out!

3. Strengthens identity and roots

Sports are a way to connect with your roots. My neighbour is originally from England. Watching Manchester United connects him to his culture and friends back home. For many, being a fan isn’t just a hobby; it’s part of your identity.

Local fans also feel this connection. Whether you’re the “12th man” at a football game or a die-hard hockey fan, identifying with a team connects you to a larger community.

4. Game’s on, pressure’s off

Talking about sports is an easy icebreaker and a good starting point for developing a deeper connection. You can share stats, debate plays, and poke fun at rival teams without getting too personal. 

I’ve seen how friendly banter and lighthearted ribbing can bring people together. It’s a way to form bonds without requiring deep emotional vulnerability. In other words, it’s connection without pressure—and that’s a win for many guys.

Being vulnerable is excellent for your mental health, but there’s a time and place for it. Sometimes, you need to keep things light.

5. Sharpens your brain (Yes, really!)

Watching sports isn’t just about sitting on the couch. For many guys, it’s an intellectual challenge. Fantasy leagues, analyzing plays, and learning new strategies engage your brain and build new neural pathways, keeping your brain sharp.

The science behind sports and happiness

A 2024 study found that watching sports activates the brain’s reward circuits, releasing feel-good chemicals like dopamine. The study also revealed that regular viewers displayed higher grey matter volume in areas of the brain associated with reward processing, suggesting that watching sports might gradually enhance overall happiness levels.

Another study from China explored the connection between watching sports, social interaction, and emotional wellbeing. It identified three key pathways:

  1. Watching sports leads to social interactions, which improves happiness.
  2. Watching sports triggers emotional experiences, enhancing subjective wellbeing.
  3. Combining social interaction and emotional experience results in the greatest sense of happiness.

So there you go; it’s scientifically proven that sports boost your mental health.

Wrapping up

Unlike the last few minutes of an NFL game, we’ll wrap this up quickly. Grab some snacks, gather your friends, and enjoy the game! 

Who do you predict will win the Super Bowl this year? Share in the comments below!