The emotional journey of sports fans: Managing anxiety before the Rugby World Cup final

With the rugby final fast approaching, many South Africans are already on edge. Sports can be an emotional rollercoaster for fans who feel extremely attached to their favourite teams. Clinical psychologist Dr Portia Monnapula-Mazabane writes about the anxiety experienced by fans and what they can do to manage it ahead of a big match. 

When it comes to watching your favourite sports, for many, it's not just a game but a rollercoaster of emotions, anticipation, and shared experiences within a short time. 

With the rugby final fast approaching, many of us are already on edge, thinking, "Will we win this weekend?" But have you ever stopped to wonder why sports make you feel the way they do? Or how to handle the stress and anxiety that sometimes comes with being a die-hard fan? Let's dive in.