On Monday, Edmonton Oilers fans were preparing for an exciting yet nerve-wracking Stanley Cup Final Game 7 against the Florida Panthers.
The Oilers lost 1-2 in Florida.
It was a disappointing loss for those fans, who have been through a rollercoaster of emotions this season.
A counsellor and Oilers fan told CHAT News that sports fans’ sadness after a big loss is often brushed off.
READ: Edmonton Oilers fans coping with Stanley Cup loss
“It’s so easy for us to minimize that or for us to pretend like that’s not having an impact on us,” said Ben Feere, a counsellor with Medicine Hat Family Service.
Feere said becoming attached to a team or player is a normal human experience and that post-season emptiness is something both fans and athletes deal with.
He said rather than changing negative feelings after a big loss, it’s important to redirect that energy.
READ: Hatters back Edmonton Oilers in Stanley Cup final
Finding a new passion, or something new to root for can help, according to Feere.
“For some athletes in some situations, it’s prepping for next year,” Feere said.
“For hockey fans, the NHL draft is only a few days away and so hope springs eternal.”
Feere said reflection and self care is a good way to mitigate some negative feelings, while still acknowledging and accepting their presence.
“But yeah, finding what is that next thing that I want to be focused on? What is the next thing that I want to be putting my time and energy towards?”
