The powerful psychological benefits of being a superfan

I can still vividly recall the moment when I was first introduced to the music of the Grateful Dead. It happened during the initial stages of the COVID lockdowns, about a week in. While I had listened to their music extensively prior to the pandemic, there was something about the live performance of “Sugaree” from Veneta, Oregon, on August 27, 1972 that resonated deeply with me. It was a moment that not only stimulated my auditory senses but also set me on a path towards a new adventure. This experience led me to discover a community of like-minded individuals whom I now cherish, share live shows with, engage with online, and ultimately feel a sense of belonging with – the Deadheads.

Belonging to a community is a fundamental human need that cannot be fulfilled in isolation. It involves stepping outside of oneself, engaging with others, and uniting around a common purpose or interest. Whether it’s die-hard sports fans, political rally attendees, Comicon enthusiasts, or fans of a particular band like the Dead, the sense of connection and belonging is more crucial now than ever before. Recent reports from the White House and the surgeon general highlight the mental health crisis and epidemic of loneliness and isolation gripping the United States. Studies have shown that the absence of belonging is linked to negative outcomes such as poor mental health and reduced resilience – a grim reality.

Dr. Brianne Kothari, a social researcher at Oregon State University, Cascades, emphasized the importance of cultivating connections and creating environments where individuals feel a sense of belonging. Her research, the Community Belonging Measurement Project, underscores the significance of fostering a sense of community and connection in today’s society.

For me, the journey towards belonging began with the music of the Dead. It started with that transformative live album from 1972 and led me to explore a plethora of other live performances, discerning the subtle differences based on the year and the band’s evolution at that time. Engaging in online forums, sharing insights on various live shows, and connecting with fellow enthusiasts further deepened my sense of belonging. These forums were not merely digital spaces but vibrant communities where people gathered to connect, converse, learn from one another, and find a sense of belonging.

Subsequently, attending live concerts by Dead & Company, the contemporary iteration of the band, allowed me to stand among individuals whom I now consider “my people.” Engaging in conversations, sharing experiences, and celebrating the music together forged a sense of camaraderie that transcended differences in age, background, or profession. The unity experienced in those moments as Deadheads was truly profound and uplifting.

Dr. Kothari stressed the importance of in-person interactions in fostering a sense of belonging. While online forums serve as a valuable platform for initial connections, true belonging is often solidified through face-to-face interactions. The concept of “collective effervescence,” coined by sociologist Émile Durkheim, captures the energy and harmony felt when individuals come together around a shared purpose. This shared experience can be transformative and uplifting, creating a sense of belonging that transcends individual differences.

The beauty of collective effervescence is that it can be found in various settings – whether it’s at a concert, a sporting event, a volunteer activity, or any gathering where individuals come together for a common cause. The key is committing oneself to the shared purpose, engaging with others, and embracing the sense of community and connection that emerges.

In conclusion, the quest for belonging is a universal human experience that shapes our sense of identity and fulfillment. By actively seeking out opportunities to connect, engage, and belong, we not only enrich our own lives but also contribute to the collective well-being of society. Whether it’s through music, sports, volunteering, or simply engaging with others, the journey towards belonging is a rewarding and transformative experience that enriches our lives in profound ways.