Beyond the scoreboard: 5 game-changing mental health benefits of team sports

Team sports vs. individual sports and physical activity: Which is best for mental health?

This same review reported that compared to individual sports, taking part in team sports provides more benefits to overall mental health. For example, one study found that women who participated in club- and team-based sports (specifically tennis or netball) reported having better mental health than those who participated in individual physical activity. Another study that explored the links between physical activity context (think team sports vs. individual physical activity vs. informal group physical activity) and mental health in college students reported that getting active through team sports was related to better mental health, regardless of the amount of physical activity.

1. Reduced rates and symptoms of depression and anxiety

According to a 2018 review of studies on social and psychological health outcomes related to team sport, participating in team sports is linked to reduced depression and anxiety rates. Other research also supports a link between physical activity type and mental health among young adults (average age 23), with ball sports linked to fewer depressive symptoms in individuals under high stress.

2. Stress relief, resiliency and coping skills

With their often-continuous movement and strategy, participating in team sports is an excellent way to take your mind off daily stresses. It can also help you become more resilient in the face of stressful situations that crop up in other areas of your life because it teaches you how to cope with challenges, setbacks, losses and high-pressure situations.

3. Improved social connections

Compared to individual sports or physical activities, team sports are inherently more social since they require you to work together and communicate with other people. So, it’s not surprising that a 2018 scientific literature review found a wide range of social benefits linked to participating in team sports, with some of the most commonly reported ones being social interaction, networking, a sense of belonging and emotional social support. The shared wins, losses and challenges help foster a sense of belonging and decrease feelings of isolation, and the bonds you form through team sport can turn into meaningful friendships that can provide that important mental health support system.

4. Exposure to positive influences

In team sports, the expectations, behaviours and norms of other teams and players will likely influence you. For instance, your teammates may motivate you to push yourself more and/or to join in on events outside of practices or games, such as after-game celebrations or club socials that may further benefit your mental health.

5. Sense of purpose and accomplishment

If you play a team sport, you’ll probably quickly realize that you’re an important part of a larger purpose, with a certain responsibility to ensuring your team is successful. This will require you to regularly attend practices and games, communicate with your team, perform to the best of your ability and support other players. Plus, whether sports are organized or informal, their structured nature can encourage you to set goals and work towards achieving them, offering you a sense of accomplishment that can benefit your mental health.