How Fandom Can Improve Your Health

Whether you followed every match of the recent World Cup or Taylor Swift's Eras Tour, being a fan is more than entertainment—it's a way to connect with others, relieve stress, and express who you are.

Research shows that this connection, stress reduction, and self-expression all support mental and physical health. “Fandom creates a built-in sense of belonging," says Missouri Baptist Medical Center Chief of Medicine Ben Voss, MD. "When people connect over a shared interest, it can reduce feelings of isolation, lower stress, and support both mental and physical health over time. Strong relationships are great for your health—and fandom is one of the best ways to build strong relationships.”

Unlike a hobby, which is typically focused on an activity, fandom is centered on a shared object of interest and the community, traditions, and identities built around it. If you're interested in connecting with a group of fans but don't know where to start, try one of these four ideas:

Cheer on a team (or join one) to boost your well-being

Sports fandom isn’t just common, it’s powerful.  Nearly 90% of Americans identify as sports fans, and research shows that stronger identification with a team is linked to greater personal life satisfaction and social well-being. “One of my most treasured memories is taking my dad to Game 7 of the 2011 World Series and cheering on our St. Louis Cardinals,” says Dr. Voss.

Rooting for your favorite team is a powerful connection point, where you can find like-minded community, and a predictable schedule for gathering on gamedays during set seasons. And if you want to take it a step further, try playing.  

You don’t need to be an athlete to take part in or enjoy being on a sports team. That’s what recreational leagues are for: enjoyment of the game and the camaraderie. Find a local team in your area for a sport that interests you, like basketball, pickleball, softball, volleyball, or even ultimate frisbee, and sign up to play a game. Moving your body through exercise offers tremendous physical and mental health boosts, including reduction in depression and anxiety.  

Attend a concert, and lower your stress hormones

There’s nothing quite like enjoying live music. It sounds better, richer, and more soul-stirring when experienced in-person, and it’s a great escape from the daily grind of life. Seeing live concerts has also been shown to  reduce stress hormones. Listening to music is a proven stress-reducer, with positive impacts on cortisol, stress response, heart rate, and anxiety. In one study, participants who listened to relaxing music showed faster physiological recovery after stress.  

“Stress affects nearly every system in the body, from heart rate to blood pressure to hormone levels,” says Dr. Voss. “Activities like listening to music can help regulate that response, allowing the body to relax and return to a healthier baseline.”

Being a music fan of a particular orchestra, band, or artist is a great way to support musicians, get out into your community (at various arts venues), and connect with others who share your passion for music. Being around fellow music fans amplifies enjoyment, fosters community and connection, and improves emotional well-being.  

Literary fandoms and prevention of cognitive decline

As with music fandom, literary fandoms and book clubs also support artists, foster community, and create social relationships. Stories are powerful connectors. Reading the stories of others, whether true or fiction, provides the opportunity to gain more empathy, consider another perspective, and flex your cognitive muscles. One 14-year study discovered that people who read at least weekly were significantly  less likely to experience cognitive decline over six, 10, and 14 years.  

“Reading keeps the brain engaged while also building empathy—two factors that play an important role in preventing dementia and long-term cognitive health,” Dr. Voss explains.  

Literature fandoms are numerous, and include beloved series like Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, The Hunger Games, A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR), and many more. Through these communities, literary fans gather for conventions, online gatherings, and creating fan fiction together.  

Let your curiosity lead you  

If you’re unsure of where to start, or if you don’t currently have any standout passions, consider something you’re curious about and then visit your local library. Libraries are a great resource, and they offer a wealth of opportunities for connection. Many local libraries have book clubs, lectures, yoga classes, and family friendly activities, like storytelling and arts and crafts. Libraries also provide a calming space, safety, purpose, and connection, which are all important for good mental health. In fact, the majority of library patrons report that library use positively impacts their well-being.  

If you’re not registered already, sign up at your library for a library card, and start accessing myriad free events—and enjoying the mental health benefits of library use—through your branch.  

Learn more about the health benefits of connection.