Tips for When You’re Sick

October is here and so is the start of flu season. Being sick with the flu or a cold is never fun, but it’s even worse when you live alone. There’s no one around to run to the store for you, make a cup of tea, or just hang out while you get your strength back.

Have no fear though, there are ways to survive being sick while living alone.

How to Feel Better 101

Stock up on supplies now

Don’t wait until you can’t breathe and are wearing every sweatshirt you own to run out to the store for medicine. Take note of the state of your medicine cabinet and then make a trip to the closest drug store. Stock up on day and nighttime cold medicine, cough drops, pain reliever, tissues, a Netty Pot, and even some canned soup. The next time you wake up with flu symptoms you’ll be thankful you thought ahead.

Let It Go

Let your weekly chore calendar go, just until you feel better. It’s unlikely you’ll be well enough (or even able) to do any serious cleaning around your home. Take the time to rest and give your body the break it needs, your floors can stand to not be vacuumed for a while. If you are able to get up and move a bit, try to focus on a keeping a few areas of your home clean. This mostly includes changing your sheets and towels and taking the trash out.

Maintain Your Routine

When you’re in the thick of your illness you’ll likely want to lay in bed, in the dark, while watching reruns of Friends all day. This is understandable (and encouraged!), but once you start to feel a bit better try to get back to your routine ASAP. Open the curtains, make your morning cup of coffee, and respond to a few emails. The longer you stay in the “I’m sick” mindset, the longer you actually feel sick.

Ask for Help

Trying to do too much when you’re extremely ill can make matters worse. Don’t be afraid to phone a friend or a family member and ask for help. Put together a list and ask them to run to the grocery store for you. On their way in to your apartment, ask if they can get your mail. A helping hand will give you peace of mind and help you on your road to recovery. 

Being sick is never fun, but just remember that you’ll be back to your normal self in a week or two. It’s also a perfect time to binge watch that new show without feeling guilty. Oh, and don’t forget to replace your old toothbrush once your cold or flu has run its course.