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Victory for Edmonton Oilers is truly a win-win for fans’ health

Edmonton Oilers fans flock to San Jose to cheer their team to 1-0 win over the Sharks on Sunday, April 16, 2017. Global News

As if Edmontonians need another reason to cheer for the Oilers during the playoffs. Still, one local psychiatrist says our team winning is actually good for us.

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READ MORE: Edmonton Oilers blank San Jose Sharks 1-0 in NHL playoffs 

“The more success (the Oilers) have, the likelier the overall mental health of the city will be,” Dr. Peter Silverstone said.

“It’s really a win-win situation.”

The University of Alberta professor explains the link between mental and physical health is strong. For example, people in positive environments tend to have less stress and live longer.

When our team wins, our brains release endorphins, the feel-good chemicals that can last for hours. That effect can boost our self-esteem and confidence.

READ MORE: Show me the money! Edmonton Oilers fans embrace 50/50 ‘phenomenon’

Beating our opponents also builds our sense of community. It gives strangers on an elevator something to bond over, besides the weather.

“Now you have a different, more positive thing to talk about,” Silverstone said.

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“That actually encourages better mental health. It also encourages people to be more outgoing.”

WATCH: Edmonton Oilers anthem singer had goosebumps during game 1 of NHL playoffs

And if you found yourself getting a little teary during the Canadian national anthems at Rogers Place, you’re not alone.

Silverstone says those uplifting moments can give us a sense of belonging and civic pride.

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