Health News You Can Use: World Cup in KC: Mental Health Impact

As hundreds of thousands of anticipated visitors descend upon the KC metro for matches and watch parties, the massive sporting event may have a dual impact on mental health.

1 minute

For the first time in history, Kansas City will host several World Cup soccer matches, bringing hundreds of thousands of visitors to the metro area this summer.

Increased crowds, emotional ties to the game, and an especially busy season for service workers and first responders could pose challenges in maintaining mental wellbeing.

Dr. Emily Perry, a psychiatrist with Saint Luke’s Behavioral Health Specialists, joined Health News You Can Use this week to share guidance on dealing with heightened anxiety, large crowds, and high emotions during the sporting event.