The boys had a stressful morning because they were nervous about their flu shots. They’re always nervous because in their minds, it’s far worse than what it ends up being.

The simple act of getting flu shots is a very overstimlating, anxiety filled meltdown making event.

The anxiety builds until it’s their turn for the shot. Panic sets and it goes downhill very rapidly. They absorb each other’s anxiety and feed off it, making things exponentially more difficult.

All things considered, they did well. Gavin did amazing and while he was scared, he bravely went through with it. The boys were brave but incredibly anxious. The anxiety overwhelmed their ability to cooperate but we managed to get it done.

They all came out the other end of this appointment and while they aren’t even thinking about it anymore, the fallout is apparent.

Many people avoid getting the flu shot each year because they think they’re too busy or they don’t see the point. Maybe they think they’re not going to get the flu because they’ve managed to avoid it in previous years. Maybe they’re afraid of vaccines in general or just don’t like needles.