“Mommy I don’t feel well.” A phrase that always sends my anxiety through the roof. 

It is inevitable that kids get sick, especially when you’re a mom of multiple kids. Covid launched a new level of sickness awareness in all of us that has made having sick kids an even more stressful event than it was pre-Covid. So how do we deal with the stress and anxiety when our kids are sick?

Keep your normal schedule

Stick to your daily routine as much as you can, even though it will be hard to do. Your day definitely won’t look like normally does but attempting to maintain a small bit of normalcy can make a big difference in anxiety levels. Something as simple as getting your day started at the same time or your usual coffee routine will do wonders for helping everyone feel better. 

Open the windows

Every morning when I wake up, no matter what the weather is, I open the windows above my kitchen sink. It feels like I’m airing out the space and allowing fresh air to circulate through our home. It likely doesn’t make that big of a difference but it sure does feel good.  

Take care of you

When my kids are sick my appetite and self care go out the window. I forget to eat, I get dehydrated, and I put my workouts on the back burner which is the absolute wrong thing to do. Take care of yourself so you that you are able to take care of your people. Eat enough, stay hydrated, and be sure to find a way to get some self care in- even if it’s just stepping outside for a quick break.

Use a meditation app

Sick kids automatically raises anxiety levels and meditation is clinically proven to lower heart rate and stress levels. I love using the Headspace app for sleep stories, relaxing music, gentle yoga, and meditations for all times of the day. When I’m anxious I have a hard time winding down for sleep so using Headspace takes my mind off my worries and allows me to fall asleep more easily.

Exercise 

If I could shout it from the rooftops, I would. When your kids are sick- exercise. Working out boosts your immune system and your body’s ability to fight off germs. So getting in your workout, even if it’s spread out throughout a very busy day will benefit your mental and physical health. Exercise releases endorphins which help you feel happier and will take your mind off of your stressors. Carve out time for a living room workout, an early morning yoga session, or an evening walk while someone else is with the kids for a bit. 

Being a parent means that your kids will get sick and it’s completely normal for your anxiety level to rise as the thermometer does too. Don’t fall into the trap of only taking care of your kids and letting your own self care go by the wayside. Make yourself a cup of tea, curl up with your favorite book, go for a walk, or just open the windows to keep anxiety down and your illness fighting skills at the ready.