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Can Watching the World Cup Boost Your Well-Being?

June 9, 2026

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As the FIFA World Cup brings elite soccer to the United States—and the shared experience of watching it—it also brings a range of benefits for fans’ mental and physical well-being.

“The World Cup is one of the most watched sporting events on the planet, but it doesn’t have to be just entertainment—it can help jump-start healthier habits, provide a great opportunity for new social connections, and remind us how dedication and persistence lead to success,” says Columbia psychologist Michael Carollo, PsyD. Dr. Carollo explains how watching the tournament can boost well-being—and shares healthy habits for fans to embrace.

Are there mind-body benefits of watching the World Cup?

Whether you’re watching from a sports bar, backyard, or stadium, the World Cup is highly social. Research shows that people who follow sports—especially together—report higher life satisfaction and less loneliness than those who don’t.

“Shared experiences like watching sports can help people feel more connected—and connection is a key part of both mental and physical health,” says Dr. Carollo. Studies show that when individuals develop a strong connection to a particular team, they have an increased understanding of their own sense of self, he adds. “Sports teams help provide individuals with a ‘community self,’ which is a necessary component of a healthy self-identity.”

That social connection is enhanced by cultural exchanges and interactions with people from all over the world. Fans can experience new traditions and perspectives, create instant “in-groups” (fans of the same team), and explore shared rituals (like cheering and chanting).

There are also biological benefits: Strong social bonds can help regulate stress levels(yes, yelling at the TV counts as an emotional release), improve heart health, and even support longevity by calming the body’s stress response.

“Sports give people a break from daily stress,” Dr. Carollo says, noting that matches can provide relief from typical routines. “They create moments of excitement and connection that can improve overall mental welfare.”

What’s more, watching elite athletes can motivate healthier habits, often inspiring fans to increase physical activity and embrace smarter routines.

Are there any health risks to be aware of?

Yes, especially during high-stakes matches. As uplifting as it can be, the World Cup can also pose health concerns.

Watching the tournament can involve unhealthy habits—such as sleep disruptions, heavy drinking, high-fat foods, and negative feelings like stress and anger—all of which have harmful effects on physical and mental health. Addictive behaviors such as gambling can also lead to long-term financial and emotional strain.

How can you enjoy the World Cup in a healthy way?

Enhance the benefits and avoid the health risks of watching the tournament by sticking to a few simple habits, such as:

  • Make it social: Get the health perks of social connection by watching with your friends, family, or community, or attend local watch parties or matches. Lean into the cultural experience as well: The World Cup in the U.S. is a rare chance to engage with different cultures, try new foods (in moderation), and meet people from around the world.
  • Watch what you eat: Choose lighter fare, like grilled chicken or fish options, when possible, and healthier snacks—think nuts and whole-grain chips combined with healthier dips such as guacamole, hummus, and pico de gallo.
  • Watch your alcohol intake: Avoid alcohol or alternate it with water or other beverages (like flavored seltzers or unsweetened iced tea).
  • Pace yourself: Try not to sacrifice sleep for every match. Prioritize the games that matter most to you, and set a bedtime—even during big games.
  • Stay active: Use halftime to move—take a walk, stretch, or turn fandom into action by playing pickup soccer or kicking a ball with friends.
  • Manage your stress: If a game gets intense, take a break, step away, or practice deep breathing.

“Watching the World Cup can do more than support your mental and social well-being,” says Dr. Carollo. “With the tournament in the U.S., it’s also a rare chance to connect—not just with the game, but with each other and the world.”

Michael Carollo, PsyD, is an assistant professor of medical psychology (in Psychiatry) at Columbia and a licensed psychologist practicing at ColumbiaDoctors.

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