Wellbeing in Football

Zahid Nasser

Zahid Nasser is a 3rd-year Philosophy student at Warwick who undertook the Understanding Wellbeing online module during the Autumn term 2024.

About the Project

This project explores the impact of football on wellbeing, highlighting both its positive and negative effects. Football fosters community and belonging, as seen in friendships formed on and off the pitch. It can unite people through shared passion but also create tension through rivalries. The pressures of professional football, including performance expectations and financial incentives, influence players' self-worth and mental health.

Economic aspects also shape wellbeing in football. While major tournaments generate national prosperity, financial disparities and exploitative conditions highlight social inequalities. The emotional highs of victory and the devastating lows of failure are central to the footballing experience. Players often face immense scrutiny from fans and media, leading to stress, anxiety, and, in some cases, depression. Social media exacerbates this pressure, as seen in cases of online abuse directed at players after poor performances.

Resilience is essential in overcoming these challenges, but certain factors, like injuries, remain beyond players' control. Addressing wellbeing in football requires clubs, fans, and governing bodies to foster supportive environments, prioritize mental health resources, and promote initiatives that encourage respect and inclusivity. Ultimately, while football has the power to inspire and uplift, it must actively mitigate risks to wellbeing to ensure it remains a positive force in society.