How to get over fear of needles: 6 quick tips

Flex your muscles

According to experts, muscle tension is a simple but very useful technique for maintaining your blood pressure and to avoid fainting at the sight of a needle. This technique requires finding a comfortable place to sit and tensing the muscles in your arms and legs for at least 15 seconds. Repeat this action five times or until you’re feeling better.

Do breathing exercises

Breathing exercises will help relieve tension and anxiety before, during, and after receiving an injection or undergoing a procedure that involves needles, such as a blood draw. Experts recommend sitting in a comfortable upright ,but not tense position. Relax your jaw and shoulders and place a hand on your stomach then breathe deeply for a few seconds.

Seek therapy to get over fear of needles

For some people, admitting that they have a fear of needles represents a feeling of shame or fear that health care providers will judge or look down on them. It is important to know that this type of phobia is possible to overcome if you go to an expert on the subject. If your fear is mild to moderate, you can talk to the person who will be administering the injection so you feel more at ease. If your fear is more pronounced or disabling, it’s a good idea to see a psychologist or psychiatrist for more intense treatment.

Cough

Although this has not been 100% proven by science, it has been reported to be useful for people looking for a distraction when receiving an injection, as it allows them to focus something else. This is usually feasible for people whose fear is mild or moderate, but it is always best to look for the root of the fear in order to determine if you need to see a professional.

Face your fear

Sometimes the only way to overcome a fear is to face it, either alone or with others. This is especially true if medical treatment is urgent or in the case of a pandemic that requires several vaccinations. Remember to use breathing and relaxation techniques before going to the doctor. It also helps to have them talk you through the process.

Change your perspective

Try to reflect on the reason why you are afraid of needles and whether it is rational. If you have had a traumatic experience, approach a professional or read articles that can give you a more positive outlook. If your fear is based on imaginary scenarios, then it is time to reprogram your thinking, replacing these with positive images that give you comfort both in the short and long term.

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