Flu Season: When Germs Get the Best of Us and Our Mental Health Takes a Holiday

Ah, flu season! That magical time of the year when tissues become our best friends, and the only thing spreading faster than the flu is the overwhelming sense of doom as we realize we’re about to become human incubators. As we huddle under blankets like we’re in a survivalist documentary, let’s talk about how this pesky virus doesn’t just take a toll on our bodies but also gives our mental health a run for its money.

The Flu: A Lesson in Humility

First off, let’s be real: being sick feels like a punishment from the heavens. You’re stuck in bed, binge-watching shows that are much less interesting than the life you’re missing out on. You start to question your life choices: “Why didn’t I eat more kale?” or “Did I really need to go to that party where everyone was coughing like they were auditioning for a horror movie?”

As we lie there feeling crummy, it’s hard not to think of Job from the Bible, wondering why we’re going through this rough patch. Remember when he said, “Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?” (Job 2:10)? It’s a good reminder that ups and downs are just part of life. So, while the flu may have us feeling completely out of it, it’s also a chance to pause, reflect, and maybe even lean a little more on our faith. And hey, even Job had his friends around—though they weren't the most helpful! Let’s use this time to reconnect with ourselves and our beliefs, turning this uncomfortable moment into a chance for some personal growth.

Sharing Is Caring, Right?

Now, let’s talk about the social aspect of flu season. Remember when you were a kid and sharing was a big deal? Well, flu season turns us all back into toddlers, except instead of sharing toys, we’re sharing germs. It’s like we’ve regressed to a time when we thought it was completely acceptable to pass around spit-covered toys. “Here, you take this cold! It’s fun to share!”

In a world where we’re trying to be more hygienic, flu season feels like a slap in the face. Suddenly, everyone is a walking germ factory, and you’re left wondering if that handshake was worth it. Spoiler alert: it wasn’t. 

The Mental Health Rollercoaster

Being sick can trigger a rollercoaster of emotions. There’s the initial despair of feeling like you’ve been hit by a truck, followed by the wave of guilt for not being productive. You might find yourself scrolling through social media, watching everyone else live their best lives, while you’re stuck in your pajamas, contemplating if it’s too much effort to reach for the remote.

This is where the Christian undertone comes into play. In our moments of weakness, we can remember that “my grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9). It’s okay to take a break, to rest, and to seek comfort in our faith. Perhaps this is God’s way of reminding us to slow down and reconnect with what truly matters.

Finding Joy in the Sickness

So how do we combat this flu-induced mental fog? Here are a few tips:

1. Embrace the Rest: Use this time to recharge. Maybe catch up on your spiritual readings or watch uplifting movies. Bonus points if they have a Jesus theme!

2. Stay Connected: While you might not want to share your germs, you can still share your thoughts. Call up a friend and have a virtual hangout. Just don’t cough on the phone!

3. Laugh It Off: Humor is a great medicine. Share your flu stories (but keep it germ-free!) and find joy in the absurdity of the situation. 

4. Pray: Invite God into your healing process. You might find that prayer brings peace amidst the chaos of coughs and sneezes.

Germs, Grace, and Giggles

As we navigate this flu season, let’s remember to find humor in the sickness, grace in our weakness, and community in our shared experiences. After all, if we can’t laugh at ourselves when we’re bundled up like a burrito with a box of tissues, what can we do?

Let’s embrace this time to rest, reflect, and recharge, knowing that it’s okay to take a break from the hustle and bustle of life. And as we share our germs (metaphorically, of course) and our stories, let’s lean into our faith. Remember, even when we feel our weakest, we are never alone. So here’s to flu season—may it remind us to cherish our health, support one another, and find joy in the little things, even if that means cozying up on the couch and enjoying a good laugh at our own expense!

Stay healthy, stay blessed, and remember: the only thing you should be sharing this flu season is love (and maybe some chicken soup)!

Madge