Outside The Therapy Room
Ivonne Hammoud is a Registered Social Worker (RSW) and owner of a therapy practice in Waterloo, Ontario. But out of the office, she's a mom, wife, daughter, sister and friend. Join Ivonne as she sits with a special guest to discuss every day things that impact our mental health! Conversations about everything from mental health and relationships, to media and current events, as well as personal experiences and reflections, all in the hopes of normalizing our humanness and helping you see that you’re not alone. This is Outside the Therapy Room!
Outside The Therapy Room
Episode 53 - More Than a Game: The Power of Sports Fanbases with Christopher Mertz
Sports have a unique power to bring people together — packed arenas, shared chants, lifelong traditions, and the electric feeling of belonging to something bigger than yourself. For many, being part of a sports fanbase creates connection, joy, and a sense of community that extends far beyond the game itself.
But fandom also has a darker side. Rivalries can turn hostile, emotions can escalate, and what starts as passion can sometimes spill into aggression, property destruction, and conflict between fans, families, and communities.
In this episode, I'm joined by a big sports fan Christopher Mertz, and together we explore the psychology of sports fanbases — why being a fan feels so good, what makes stadium atmospheres so powerful, and how group identity can strengthen connection. We also unpack when fandom becomes unhealthy, including mob mentality, aggressive behaviour, and the impact intense sports loyalty can have on relationships and mental health.
This is also our last episode of 2025! Thanks to all our listeners, we look forward to sharing new episodes with you in the new year! We will be back mid January! Happy holidays!
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