Football fans
(Photo : Reuters)

Stress is one of the leading issues of today's generation due to some external factors because of the rise of technology. In recently published research in Everyday Health in 2019, it was found that stress is a national epidemic that affects everyone regardless of gender and most particularly those who are between 25 to 35 years old.

In a recent study released by The Oxford, they tested the saliva of Brazilian fans during the team's historic loss against Germany during the 2014 World Cup. The study found levels of the hormone cortisol had skyrocketed during the 7-1 home defeat in the semi-finals.

It was concluded by the researchers that it is dangerous as it could increase blood pressures and cause  a heart attack. 

Meanwhile, the researchers found no difference in the levels of stress between males and females during the game even though men are much bonded to their football favorite teams. 

According to Dr. Martha Newson, researcher at the Center for the Study of Social Cohesion at Oxford, "Fans who are strongly fused with their team - that is, have a strong sense of being 'one' with their team - experience the greatest physiological stress response when watching a match," She also added that, "Fans who are more casual supporters also experience stress but not so extremely." 

The following can be the possible results of prolonged high levels of cortisol:

  • Constrict blood levels
  • Raise blood pressure
  • Damage an already weakened heart

The increase of cortisol in a person's body is dangerous because it can put the person at risk for a heart attack and other related diseases with the increase of blood pressure.

Meanwhile, Dr. Martha Newson told the news outlet that "It was a harrowing match - so many people stormed out sobbing," However, despite the alarming news about the dangerous level of stress among football fans, they find a way to cope with this problem. 

It is important to remember to try to avoid the stress of a game. It is advised that fans search for ways to relieve tension and stress as soon as the game ends. Try coping strategies such as humor and giving hugs and kisses to reduce the level of stress. Or have a few beers afterwards, or even sex may help. Newson also suggested that one of the ways to reduce the level of stress that football fans experience is to play calming music along with a dim light after a tough game. 

Newson continued to say that "clubs may be able to offer heart screenings or other health measures to highly committed fans who are at the greatest risk of experiencing increased stress during the game." 

If you are planning to watch a football game just make sure that you do not get over stressed with the result of the game. This will affect you mentally and physically. Just enjoy watching the game without compromising your health.