I'm glad you asked this. I have had a similar crisis lately now that the Flames are 'officially good'.
- 1989 I was so young so it was a good time no matter what
- 2003-2004 - crazy, heartbreaking, was hanging out with friends watching the game, so it was so fun. It also felt that since we 'slid into the playoffs', everything was gravy. The underdog vibes were awesome.
- 2021-2022 - I stopped watching the EDM/CGY series, as I realized I was wayyyyy too invested and it was actually causing me anxiety. My love for the Flames was too strong, and my hatred of the Oilers was possibly even stronger.
My coping strategies are endless:
- I watch only if the Flames were ahead, and I turn it off if they aren't
- I never visit CP right after a loss.
- I read Gaskal's posts after a win.
- I thank the lucky stars I am not an Oilers fan
- I read Canucks sports coverage after a few losses
- I cry myself to sleep