However, close games, last-minute goals and high stakes can increase stress hormones, leaving people feeling tense, frustrated or overwhelmed.
For some, especially when combined with factors such as alcohol, gambling, social pressure or existing relationship stress, these emotions can become harder to manage and may affect behaviour, mood and interactions with others.
This can also lead to increased conflict, aggression or harmful behaviour. Research has also identified links between major football tournaments and rises in domestic abuse incidents, particularly on match days. Other studies have highlighted the role alcohol consumption can play in worsening aggression and abusive behaviour during football events.
Understanding these risks can help people recognise when emotions are building and take steps to manage them safely.
When emotions become harder to manage
Sport can become more difficult to manage when emotional responses feel more intense or last longer than expected.
You may notice:
- Mood changes lasting hours or days after a match
- Feeling unable to switch off or relax
- Increased irritability or frustration
- Replaying moments or decisions repeatedly
These reactions can be more likely when someone is already feeling stressed, overwhelmed or emotionally vulnerable.
The role of alcohol
Alcohol is often part of match-day culture, but it can also make emotional reactions harder to manage.
Drinking heavily can:
- Lower inhibitions
- Reduce self-control
- Increase impulsive or aggressive behaviour
This can make it more difficult to respond calmly during high-pressure moments.
Gambling and added pressure
Betting on matches can increase emotional investment.
Financial risk combined with the unpredictability of sport can lead to:
- Heightened stress and anxiety
- Frustration, anger and shame after losses
- Pressure to continue gambling
This can intensify emotional reactions and make it harder to disengage. People may also feel pressure to continue gambling to recover losses, worsening emotional distress.
Domestic abuse and sport
Research has shown that reports of domestic abuse can increase during major football tournaments, particularly on match days.
It is important to be clear:
Sport does not cause domestic abuse. Abuse is always the responsibility of the person choosing to behave abusively.
However, emotionally intense situations can increase existing risk factors, including:
- Difficulties with emotional regulation
- Alcohol misuse
- Controlling or aggressive behaviour
- Relationship stress
Recognising these risks is an important step in preventing harm.
Social Media and Online Toxicity
Modern sporting culture increasingly takes place online. Social media can intensify emotional reactions through:
- Constant updates and commentary
- Online arguments
- Abuse directed at players or fans
- Exposure to negativity and outrage
- Gambling advertising and pressure
People may feel emotionally overwhelmed by the constant stream of opinions and reactions. Online abuse towards players, referees and supporters can also normalise hostility and aggression.
Taking breaks from social media during emotionally intense sporting events can support mental wellbeing.
When to seek help
It may help to seek professional support if sport-related stress or emotional reactions are:
- Affecting relationships
- Leading to aggression or conflict
- Causing persistent anxiety or low mood
- Contributing to alcohol misuse
- Affecting sleep or daily functioning
- Triggering feelings of hopelessness or loss of control
Mental health support can help people to understand emotional triggers, build healthier coping strategies, improve emotional regulation, reduce stress and anxiety and ultimately address underlying difficulties.
Sport can bring joy, connection, excitement and community. But intense emotional investment, especially during major tournaments like the World Cup, can also affect mental wellbeing.
Recognising emotional reactions, understanding the psychology behind sporting passion, and learning healthier coping strategies can help people enjoy sport more safely and positively.
This guide has been reviewed by Dr Gbolagade Akintomide
Dr Akintomide is a Consultant General Adult Psychiatrist specialising in the care of complex, acutely unwell patients and an interest in addiction and social recovery psychiatry.