How To Survive The Thin Mint Shortage

Americans are currently in the midst of a culinary crisis. Over the weekend, word broke that there is a Thin mint shortage in the United States. Yes, you read that correctly. A production delay has left hundreds, if not thousands, of cookie connoisseurs without this beloved Girl Scout confection.

To some, this is not so much a tragedy as it is a chance to indulge in other tasty Girl Scout treats. But to those of us who worship at the mint chocolate altar, it is enough to send us into a state of depression. We have been deprived of something we've waited all year for; the thing that brings us absolute joy. Instead of feasting on our favorite treat, we are now anxiously awaiting the arrival of that coveted green box.

Short of hijacking a Girl Scout delivery truck, it seems like there isn't much to do for us grief-stricken individuals. But that, dear friends, is where you're wrong. If you or someone you know if suffering from a Thin Mint-induced depression, it's important to step in and show them the light at the end of the tunnel. From baking them a minty treat to adding to a secret stash, here are seven easy ways to help someone survive the Thin Mint shortage of 2015. If you can get through this, then you can overcome any obstacle.

1. First, take a deep breath.

Right now, you or your friend may be suffering from a severe panic attack. I'm talking about the "breathing in a paper bag and sweating through your clothes" kind of attack. It's important to return to a calm state so you can, in fact, carry on with your life. Take a few deep breaths and, if possible, have someone rub your back until you return to a serene state. This will make the next six steps a whole lot easier.

2. Hold on to your boxes for dear life.

Sharing may be caring, but having a clear conscious won't satisfy your craving for chocolate and mint. During this difficult time, plenty of people will try to persuade you to share your treasured treats. But you mustn't give into their doe eyes and desperate pleas. Simply tell them your supply is dry. Then, when they're out of sight, run to your secret stash and feast like a queen.

3. Create another chocolate-mint concoction.

Nothing compares to taking a crisp, cool bite from these Girl Scout cookies. But if the fresh flavor is all you want, then why not whip up an equally delicious dessert? From cookies to cocktails, there are plenty of chocolate mint recipes that will satisfy this specific sweet tooth.

4. Or better yet, make your own Thin Mints.

You don't have to be Martha Stewart to create your own cookies. The View From Great Island's Thin Mint recipe is super simple to make, and doesn't require any actual baking. How great is that?

5. Find a friend who's willing to share.

Fortunately, not everyone is as selfish as they should be when it comes to their sweets. Send out a few frantic texts, and you're bound to hear from a friend who's more than willing to give you a box (or two) of these coveted cookies.

6. Purchase a Thin Mint candle.

For some people, a minty smell is enough to satisfy their cookie craving. If you're one of those unique individuals, then head to your nearest Yankee Candle and invest in a few scented fixtures. Though fair warning, it may be more than you can handle.

7. Remember, things could be worse.

Though this may be bad news for your stomach, it is not the end of the world. In times of food-related tragedy, it's important to take stock in the things that really matter, like family, friends, and funny Oscar memes. If you're lucky enough to have one of those in your life, then you can make it through the Thin Mint shortage.

Images: Suevannasing/Instagram; John Buie, Cookbook Queen, Katie, David Zeuthen/Flickr; Wiffle Gif (3); Giphy